Joseph "J.M." Sikes, age 78, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at his residence.

J.M. was born in Richmond Hill and lived his entire life there.  He was a retired Commercial Fisherman and was the owner/operator of Richmond Hill Bee Company.

He was a lifetime member of the Coastal Empire Beekeepers Association and the Georgia Beekeepers Association.  J.M. won numerous awards in Honey shows.  He is very well respected in the beekeeping community.  J.M. loved to hunt and fish.

J.M. is survived by devoted wife, Freida Sikes of Richmond Hill; his daughters, Tammy Ready of Midway and Jennifer Loomis of Savannah; his son, Kenneth Sikes of Hinesville; ten grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2020 at Richmond Hill Funeral Home.

Graveside services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Elkins Cemetery with Rev. Robbie Norman officiating.