Born on July 26, 1940 in Charleston, South Carolina, James Franklin Rourk Jr. was the eldest son of James Franklin Rourk Sr. and Bealuh Blanton Rourk.

James proudly served in the United States Navy from 1958 to1961, stationed aboard an aircraft carrier in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. Following his military service, he built a long and successful career in the grocery business as a food broker, working with companies including Gatorade, Quaker Oats, and PepsiCo.

He had a deep love for NASCAR and enjoyed spending time fishing and shrimping, passions that brought him great joy throughout his life.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Myrtis G. Rourk; his son, James Franklin Rourk III (Kelly); and his daughter, Deleah Diane Rourk Lane (Ray). He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: James (Jimmy) Franklin Rourk IV (Kristal), Jonah W. Rourk (Caitlin), Brian C Rourk (Heather), Mandy Lane, and Alli Lane. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Juliet Rourk, Preston Rourk, and Jackson Rourk. He is further survived by his brothers, William Rourk (Kate), Thomas Rourk (Nancy), and Frederick Rourk (Shannon); his sisters, Frankie Johnson and Jeanie Schwenderman (Mike); and many loving nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to be made to the South Carolina Shrimpers Association or South Carolina Chapter Alzheimer’s Association.

His memorial service will be held Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel, 1494 Mathis Ferry Road at 2:00 pm. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.