James Hampton “Waterworks” Falkner Jr., 85, of Henderson, NC, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 14, 2026 around 1:00 p.m. at his home with his children by his side.

Born on December 15, 1940, he was the son of the late James Hampton Falkner and Clara Riggan Falkner.

Mr. Falkner retired from the City of Henderson’s Water Department of 40 years of service. He also worked as a tobacco farmer for 20 years. He was a member and the secretary for the Afton Gun Club for 55 years.

Surviving are one son, James Hampton “Jamie” Falkner III (Lisa); one daughter, Michelle Falkner; two granddaughters, Taylor Stevenson Orr (Zack), and Brandy Sue Cochran; four great-grandchildren, Casen Orr, Colt Orr, Rhett Orr, and Gage Cochran; one step-granddaughter, Miranda Jean White; one step-great-granddaughter, Rylee Orr; one brother-in-law, Russell Harris (Linda); one niece, Shannon Woodby (Josh); one great-niece, Makayla Woodby; and two nephews, Thomas Hughes and David Hughes.

A funeral service will be held Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Sossamon Funeral Home in Henderson conducted by Pastor Ray Renn. Interment will immediately follow the service at Sunset Gardens.

The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service from 1-2:00 p.m. at the funeral home and for all other times will be at the home.

Serving as pallbearers will be Charles Jarrell, Mike Edwards, Greg Harris, Andy Perkinson, Wade Abbott, Josh Woodby, Danny Perison, and Mickey Perison.

Arrangements are by Sossamon Funeral Home of Henderson. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com