James Norman Arledge, 68, passed away Feb. 10, 2026, lifelong logger, devoted family man, and friend to all, passed away surrounded by his loved ones. He lived a life defined by hard work, integrity, generosity and an unmatched ability to make anyone feel like family.
Logging was not just his profession; it was his calling. He spent his entire career in the woods, earning deep respect throughout the logging and timber industry. In 2008, he was honored with the Gene Collins Logger Activist Award, a recognition that reflected his commitment to advocating for loggers and the future of the industry he loved. He proudly operated Arledge Logging & Timber Harvesting and later expanded his legacy by opening his wood yard, A&A Timber Products in Campobello, SC.
His dedication extended far beyond his own work. He served eight years on the South Carolina Board of Directors for Timber Producers, where he worked to support and strengthen the logging community across the state. His leadership, voice and passion left a lasting impact on the industry he cared so deeply about.
Norman was known for never missing a day of work, no matter what the circumstances; a testament to his unwavering work ethic and sense of responsibility. Just as strong as his dedication to work was his dedication to people. He was endlessly selfless, always willing to help anyone in need.
He had the best sense of humor, could tell stories for days and keep a room laughing the entire time. He truly never met a stranger and if he did, they certainly weren’t strangers by the end of the conversation. His warmth, storytelling and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Mr. Arledge leaves behind his loving wife, Audrey; son, Andy Arledge; and daughter, Jessica Bartram. He was a proud grandfather to Andrew Arledge (Katie), Ryleigh Arledge, Easton Bartram, and Maddox Bartram, and a cherished great-grandfather to Jameson Arledge. He is also survived by his brother, Nathan and sisters, Patricia and Sandra.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mildred Arledge; his sisters Phyllis and Inez; and his brother Dennis Arledge
His legacy lives on in the woods he worked in, the businesses he built, the stories he told and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. Feb. 15, at The Wood Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Log A Load for Kids, https://donate.cmn.org/?ecode=LOGALOAD, an organization close to his heart and the logging community he served so faithfully.
Online condolences may be made to www.thewoodmortuary.com.
