James Leonard Gudger

James Leonard Gudger, affectionately known as “Buzz,” transitioned on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Valor Hospice at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville, NC.

He was born on May 2, 1954, in Asheville, NC to the late James (Jim) Aaron Gudger and Mary Lee Roland Gudger.

James was a graduate of Asheville High School, class of 1973. He was a US Army Veteran and was employed for 28 years at AB Technical Community College. James was a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. He was an avid sports fan, and his favorite team was the Atlanta Falcons.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Anna Faye Galloway and Doris Eloise Rice both of Asheville, NC.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, LaToya Bailey, Jamil Burts (Matthew), Jenà Burts, Jarell Burts of Asheville, NC; grandchildren, Takayla Hudson, David Fair, Jr., Jaceion Burts; sisters, Carrie Norton of Columbia, SC, Wanda Little of Charlotte, NC, Sandra Grant (Louis) of Asheville, NC, Bessie Gudger of Atlanta, GA; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; special lady friend, Frances Lindsey; lifelong friend, Sam Lindsey.

Special thank you to all the staff at Valor Hospice at the Charles George VA Medical Center of Asheville.

Public viewing took place from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, February 2, 2025, in the chapel of Ray Funeral & Cremation Service. Funeral service was held at 1 p.m. Monday, February 3, 2025, also in the chapel.