James "Sonny" Mashburn

James Louis “Sonny” Mashburn, of Sanford, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, unforgettable stories and a family who loved him dearly.

Born on January 29, 1933 in Carbonton, NC. Sonny was the son of the late Arch Green Mashburn and Lizzie Mae Mashburn. He attended Goldston High School, where he met Doris Virginia Burke, who would become his lifelong sweetheart. Their love story would span more than seven decades, and together they shared 73 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, laughter and countless memories.

Sonny was a hardworking man who spent 27 years employed at Pomona Pipe in Gulf. During those years, he discovered numerous fossils and prehistoric bones, including dinosaur bones. Some of his finds became part of collections in North Carolina museums and even the Smithsonian Institution, leaving behind a fascinating and lasting part of his legacy.

He also worked at Wake Stone Corporation for 15 years. Throughout his working life, Sonny formed many friendships that lasted a lifetime. He was known not only for his work ethic, but also for his playful mischief, practical jokes and wonderful sense of humor.

Anyone who knew Sonny knew he loved a good story-and he had plenty to tell. Whether recalling his mischievous adventures as a young man or the pranks he pulled on his coworkers. Sonny had a gift for bringing his stories to life. Some had been told many times before, but that never stopped him from telling them again. His stories, laughter and unforgettable personality will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved him.

Above all, Sonny’s greatest legacy was the family he and Doris built together. Through 73 years of marriage, they shared life’s joys and challenges, creating a lifetime of memories and a family whose love will carry his memory forward.

Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, Arch Green and Lizzie Mae Mashburn; his sister, Dorothy Mashburn Oldham; his beloved son, Larry Dean Mashburn and his grandson, Sonny Renn Mashburn.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 73 years, Doris Virginia Burke Mashburn his children, James Kenneth Mashburn, Steven Keith Mashburn, Richard Dale Mashburn (Cathy) and Wendy Virginia Mashburn Cox (Dennis); 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren along with extended family members and lifelong friends.

Though Sonny’s earthly journey has ended, the stories he told, the laughter he shared, the discoveries he made and the love he gave will remain forever in the hearts of hearts of those who knew him. And somewhere among the memories, there will always be one more Sonny story to tell.

The public graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at Carbonton Community Church, where he was a member, with Pastor Mike Seawell presiding. There will be no public viewing, but friends my come by Joyce-Brady Chapel on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 from 1:00-5:00 to sign the register.

Condolences may be offered online at www.joycebradychapel.com

Joyce-Brady Chapel of Bennett is honored to serve the Mashburn family.