Henderson Stamping owner and founder James Ray “Jimmy” Porter, 75, died Oct. 31, 2020 at his home in Finger.
In 1981, he founded Henderson Stamping. For 39 years, located on Hwy. 45 in Henderson, Henderson Stamping and Production, Inc. has made its home. Having created a business plan to provide medium- and high-volume stampings, he and Betty incorporated Henderson Stamping in 1981. Their dream was built on the foundation of his expertise in tooling. They began their entrepreneurial journey in a 4,000-squarefoot building with several presses under 200 tons and a significant assembly operation. Their vision and personal investment created opportunities for expansion followed by significant growth. Henderson Stamping is now an international stamping supplier with presses up to 1,200 tons, complex automated robot lines and powder coating capabilities employing over 175 employees.
Funeral services were 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at Shackelford Funeral Directors of Henderson’s East Main Chapel with Ronnie Geary officiating. Burial was in the Hollywood Cemetery in Jackson. The family received friends at East Main Chapel from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesday.
He was born in Jackson on March 8, 1945, son of the late Edward and Rebecca (Barham) Porter. He grew up in Jackson and was a 1963 graduate of Jackson High School.
He began working for Robins Tool and Die. He married Betty Essary on Oct. 20, 1979, and they made their home in Finger.
He enjoyed motorcycles, especially his Harleys, drag racing, restoring cars, boating and spending time on Pine Lake. He was a member of a Jackson car club and was a sponsor of the annual Bunny Run. He was an animal lover, and he liked to tell stories and jokes and enjoyed people. He loved his grandkids and enjoyed watching their ballgames and soccer games.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Porter of Finger; a daughter, Melissa Stegall of Jackson; two sons Clay (Julie) Porter of Jackson and Kevin (Katie) Porter of Finger; three grandchildren, William Howard Samuel V, Clayton James Porter and Jennings Alyce Porter.
