He was born March 30, 1931 in Cleveland County. He was the son of the late Paul Philbeck and Naomi Maynard Philbeck. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant son, John Myron Philbeck and his younger brother, Ray Philbeck.

James was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, having served from 1950 to 1953. In 1958, he was in the original group of trainees employed by PPG Industries. He stayed with PPG until his retirement in 1992.

James cherished his family and did everything necessary to see that they were provided for and taken care of. In his younger years he enjoyed reading and fishing. He also did some farming.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Helen Wesson Philbeck; son, Stephen Paul Philbeck and wife Connie Hunt Philbeck; daughter, Paige Philbeck Scism and husband Joe Scism, Jr.; brother, Maynard Philbeck and wife Evelyn Philbeck; sister-in-law, Beth Crowe Philbeck; three grandchildren, Justin Philbeck, Luke Scism and Caleb Scism. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was a member of Double Springs Baptist Church.

Visitation: Double Spring Baptist Church Family Life Center, Tuesday, May 14, 2013 from 1:00-2:00 PM 

Burial: Cleveland Memorial Park            

Officiating: Rev. Bill Fryar

Memorial Donations: Double Springs Baptist Church, 1130 Double Springs Church Rd., Shelby, NC 28150.    

FUNERAL HOME:  Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory