James "Jimmy" Franklin Warfford

James “Jimmy” Franklin Warfford, born September 8, 1940, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, was a pillar of the Siler City, North Carolina community for decades, leaving a lasting legacy through service, leadership, and mentorship. 

Coach Warfford devoted more than 30 years to Jordan-Matthews High School, where he served as a long-time baseball coach, athletic director, and multi-sport coach. In recognition of his extraordinary commitment and impact, the Jordan-Matthews baseball field was named in his honor upon his retirement. He also coached football at both the junior varsity and varsity levels and served as the junior varsity women’s basketball coach. His contributions to Jordan-Matthews athletics were further honored with his induction into the Jordan-Matthews Hall of Fame. 

A former collegiate athlete, Jimmy Warfford played baseball at Mars Hill University prior to beginning his distinguished coaching career. Known simply as “Coach” to generations of students and athletes, he was respected not only for his knowledge of the game, but for the character, discipline, and care he instilled in those he coached. To many, he was far more than a coach; he was a mentor, role model, and friend. 

He married the love of his life, Linda Cowan Warfford, on June 22, 1968. She preceded him in death. 

Beyond athletics, Jimmy was deeply rooted in the Siler City community. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Siler City and a proud member of the Freemasons, living out his faith and values through service to others. 

Jimmy also honorably served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Specialist Four (E-4) 

He is survived by his daughters, Mary Beth Cooke and Jenny Lind DeWeese; his sons-in-law, Buddy Cooke and Brad DeWeese; and his beloved grandchildren, CharlieMae Cooke, Wade Cooke, Reece Cooke, Addalyn DeWeese, Brinley DeWeese, Harlow DeWeese, and Axton DeWeese. 

Coach Jimmy Warfford’s influence extended far beyond the field. He was a coach and a friend to everyone he met, and his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through leadership, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his community.

The family will receive friends on Friday, January 23, 2026 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Smith and Buckner funeral home, 230 N. Second Ave., Siler City, NC 27344. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00am at First Baptist Church of Siler City, 314 N. Second Ave., Siler City, NC 27344 with Rev. Jim Wall officiating. Burial will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery, Siler City. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in Jimmy's honor to First Baptist Church of Siler City, 314 N. Second Ave., Siler City, NC 27344.

If you are unable to attend the service in person, you are able to watch the live stream of the service by clicking here.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is honored to serve the Warfford family.

Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com