Michael John James, 77 - Normantown

(02/18/2011)
Michael John James age 77 of Normantown, West Virginia, passed away peacefully to the arms of the Lord on Thursday, February 17, 2011 in the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, Weston.

He was born September 20, 1933 in Gilmer County WV, a son of the late Aubra and Rhoda Whitsel James.

Mike was former owner and operator of James Texaco in Gassaway, an oilfield worker for United Petro before having to retire due to a debilitating heart attack. He was an army veteran having served in Germany. He loved hunting, trapping, was a great sports fan, playing rummy, reminiscing about the good old days, and especially enjoyed his family and the lights of his life, granddaughters Rachael and Katelyn. Mike was a member of the Lower Steer Run Missionary Baptist Church.

On December 30, 1957 he was married to Veda Allen James, for 52 years, who survives at their Linn Camp Run home.

Also surviving are two sons, Johnny James and wife Robin of Normantown and Roger James and wife Becky of Glenville WV; three brothers and three sisters, Everett James and wife Greda of Weston WV, Bill James, Joe James and wife Vicki all of Normantown, Sue Holliday of Largo FL, Betty Burrows and husband Amos of Davisville WV, Euda Daniels and husband Tom of Weston; two granddaughters, Rachael James and Katelyn Weese.

In addition to his parents Mike was preceded in death by one sister, Fern Helmick James; and infant grandson Brian Matthew James.

Funeral services will be conducted at the Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., Glenville WV at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, February 20 with Rev. Richard Westfall officiating. Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Normantown.

Friends may call from 1-3 p.m., Sunday at the Mortuary.

Ellyson Mortuary, Inc. is assisting the family of Michael John James with arrangements.