The town of Fort Deposit and the broader Lowndes County community are mourning the loss of a beloved and visionary figure. James Deward “Tootie” Chambliss passed away following a prolonged illness, leaving behind a powerful legacy of creativity, service, and inspiration.
James Deward “Tootie” Chambliss
Known by many as a true Renaissance man, Chambliss wore many hats: filmmaker, entrepreneur, artist, and community advocate. He will be remembered at a celebration of life service on Sunday, August 10, at 2:30 p.m. at Bethel Baptist Church in Fort Deposit.
Tootie Chambliss was a driving force in the local arts and film scene. He wrote, directed, and produced two thought-provoking documentaries — “Children Changing the World” and “You Can Change the World”. His most cherished project, Children Changing the World, took eight years to bring to life and featured the stories of over 600 Alabama students and a dedicated schoolteacher who challenged their young minds to improve the world around them. The film stands as his magnum opus—a testament to his enduring belief in the power of youth, hope, and collective action.
Chambliss was also the co-owner of Southern Land Management, a company dedicated to improving land and communities across Alabama. Its mission — “We are trying to make the world a more beautiful place through our artistic endeavors”—reflected his deep-rooted passion for blending artistry with meaningful impact.
His contributions to Alabama stretched far beyond business and film. Tootie actively served on several boards and organizations, including:
Artistic Director, Alabama International Film Festival
Board Member, Mid-South Resource Conservation and Development Council
Board Member, Lowndes County Health and Human Resources Agency
Board Member, SKY (Skilled Knowable Youth) Program
Board Member, Fort Deposit Arts Council
Despite his many titles and accolades, Chambliss often said his most rewarding work came through volunteering with Eye Care Alabama — a group of eye care professionals who provided free vision screenings and eyeglasses to underserved communities across rural Alabama.
His guiding life philosophy was both humble and profound:
“My soul was a gift from God at birth, however the quality of my soul comes from the experiences of life and what I learn from those who experience life with me. I have a devoted and adventurous heart and a spiritual soul. Some ask me, ‘Why?’ and my response is, ‘Why not?’”
James “Tootie” Chambliss was a man of great vision — one who used every moment, every platform, and every relationship as an opportunity to uplift others. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the world he helped change for the better.
