He was a native of Southern Pines, NC, was born November 14, 1929 in Bertie County, NC to the late James S. Assad, Sr. and Alice Keel Assad. James served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was manager and owner of New England Esso in Manly, NC for many years. He also managed the Mini Mart Convenient Store in Southern Pines.

James is preceded in death by his wife Linda S. Assad of Collins, GA and his brother Daniel W. Assad of Southern Pines.

James is survived by a daughter, La'Wana A. Abernathy (Preston) of Apopka, FL; sons, Rafi J. Assad (Deborah) of Flat Rock, NC and Karl Najib Assad (Debbie) of Blacksburg, SC; a sister, Margaret A. McDonald of Southern Pines, NC. He leaves nine grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

A Graveside Service will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Southern Pines, NC.