The comedian, who called himself “the funniest man in America”, had suffered “cardiac complications”.

Confirming his death on May 9, James’ family said he “brought laughter and joy to countless lives”.

They said: “Today, with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of the Funniest Man in America, comedian James Gregory.

“He brought laughter and joy to countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the world of comedy and those who loved him.

“James’ three nieces who referred to him as ‘Uncle Bubba,’ Martha Anne, Mary Jane, and Candie, along with their families, were instrumental in caring for him through his last days and weeks.

Born in 1946 in his parents’ kitchen in the town of Lithonia, Georgia, James started work aged 11 in the family grocery shop.

He went on to be a postman and joined the US Marines aged 18 – but was medically discharged weeks later.

After an 18 year career in sales he got his break into comedy aged 36 after signing up to a local stand-up night in Atlanta, Georgia.

He quickly rose through the ranks to establish himself as one of the southeast USA’s most adored comedians.

His career spanned 41-years, during which he toured the world performing for US troops on air craft carriers and at military hospitals.

James’s autobiography, A Bushel of Beans and a Peck of Tomatoes: The Life and Times of “The Funniest Man in America”, will be published in November.