WILMINGTON — We are saddened to announce the death of James Isaac “Jim” Metts, Jr., 75, of Hampstead, NC, who peacefully passed away on March 19, 2025.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Isaac Metts, Sr., and Joy Abernethy Metts of Wilmington, NC and his aunt, Jane Abernethy of Hickory, NC.
Jim completed his undergraduate degree at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. In 1974 he moved to Birmingham, AL, attending the Birmingham School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctorate. After graduation, he worked as a law clerk in Birmingham and Huntsville, AL. In 1980, he returned to NC, becoming a claims adjustor for State Farm Insurance. He retired from State Farm in 2012 as a Special Investigation Unit Supervisor, overseeing claims in 3 states.
Jim had a broad range of interests. He loved reading, fishing, sailing, hunting, and searching for arrowheads. After retirement, he participated in Civil War reenactments as a Confederate surgeon. He was a member of the Cape Fear Club, the MOSB-Whiting Chapter and the Eastern North Carolina Historic Archeological Association.
Jim is survived by his wife, Bonney Byrum Metts of Hampstead and a son, Michael Sean Metts of Timberlake, NC. He has a brother, Julius Metts (Jovita) of Fresno, CA and a sister, Helen Styes (Chuck) of Wilmington NC. He has four nephews, as well as one grandnephew and three grandnieces.
A graveside service will be held at Oakdale Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Life Care Hospice at www.lifecare.org. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Lower Cape Fear Life Care Hospice for the caring shown towards Jim.
