Obituaries

James “Jim” Kenneth Sells, 84, of Martinsville, Va. passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025. He was born on August 15, 1941 in Carroll County, Va. to the late Elmer G. Sells and Mabel Summers Sells.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Frances S. Russell (James) and brother, Jack Sells (Pat).

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Hodges Sells; daughter, Danita Hutchinson (Les); granddaughter, Jamie H. Brooks (Justin); great grandchildren, Zane, Kaelynn and Sadie Mae Brooks; also, several beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim loved his family dearly and he especially enjoyed time with his immediate family, as well as with his Galax family, which included lots of nephews, nieces and cousins.

He enjoyed a very successful 60-year career as a certified public accountant. He loved his partner, loyal employees and many clients. He was also a long-time member of Broad Street Christian Church where he served in many different capacities. He enjoyed attending church and being with his church family.

Jim loved the city of Martinsville and was always a very community and civic-minded person. He served with many local clubs and civic organizations, including the Martinsville Rotary, where he was a Paul Harris Fellow, Exchange Club, Elks Club, Lions Club, and Chamber of Commerce.

He enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, old movies, travel, the beach, spending time with long time Friday night dinner partners, all sports, especially VT Hokie Football, and all types of music from Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, to Andrae Bocelli.

The family greatly appreciates the staff and employees with the Ravenel Oncology for their wonderful care and kindness extended to Jim and his family.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Broad Street Christian Church. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1:00 pm and will be officiated by Reverend Stan Wright.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Martinsville Rotary Club, P.O. Box 3405, Martinsville, Va. 24113 or to the Martinsville Henry County SPCA, 132 Joseph Martin Hwy, Martinsville, VA 24112. Please specify in memory of James K. Sells.

McKee-Stone Funeral Home, Martinsville, Va. is serving the family.