Richard L. “Dick” James of Bellefontaine, Ohio, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on November 20, 2021, at the age of 84. After a brief battle with a recurring chronic illness, Dick died peacefully in his sleep at Memorial Hospital in Marysville, Ohio with his loving family and special friend, Brenda Sickles Donegan, by his side.
Dick was born in Belle Center on his parent’s kitchen table on October 10, 1937, to his father John Lemual James and his mother Mamie Elizabeth James. Dick had one brother and four sisters. Dick graduated from Belle Center High School and married his high-school sweetheart, Sybil Beck. Dick immediately got drafted into the Army and was stationed at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. After his service, Dick worked at LPZ Construction of Bellefontaine for 19 years before buying his first business in 1973. Dick, his wife, and many family members worked their family business, James Floors and Interiors, for more than 45 years. Dick continued to consult up until his death. His son John and grandson Cole continue the family business.
Dick and Sybil buried five infant daughters and adopted two children, Lori and John. Dick leaves a legacy of loving and serving Christ and loving and serving others. His greatest joys were church, family, friends, numerous grandkids and great grandkids. He loved each one. His reward will be great.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mamie James, stepfather Edwin Pusey, two sisters, Ruth (Earl) Akers and Mildren (John) Hill. He is survived by his daughter Lori (Geoff) Wisse, and son John (Shawn) James all of Bellefontaine. A sister, Helen (Doug) Thompson of Bellefontaine, sister, Jean (Karl) Stanbro of Franklinville, NY; brother, Earl (Jackie) James of Kenton, and his special friend, Brenda Donegan. Collectively, Dick had dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren and each one was special. There was always room in his heart for one more.
Visitation for Dick is planned for Saturday, December 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a memorial service at 1 p.m. conducted by Minister John James. All services will be held at his church home, Hi-Point Church of Christ, 1815 St. Rt. 540, Bellefontaine. All are invited to attend. His remains will be committed at Fairview Cemetery, Belle Center alongside his beloved wife at a later date.
People wishing to honor Dick’s lifelong commitment to Jesus can make donations and memorial contributions to Hi-Point Church of Christ, 1815 State Route 540, Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311.
Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Bellefontaine, is honored to serve the James family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.edsfh.com.