Obituary: Bobby James

GILBERT - LCDR Bobby James was called to his eternal home on Dec. 23, 2012; son of the late Esca and Edna James Of Mooresville, NC. LCDR James was married to the late Margaret James for 59 years and after a brief separation, they have been reunited for eternity. LCDR James honorable served his country in the United States Navy for 30 years, some achievements he earned during his service were: National Defense Service Medal, 4 Good Conduct Awards, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Meritorious Service Medal, Expert Pistol Ribbon, Expert Riffle Ribbon, Navy "E" Ribbon, Vietnam Service Ribbon, Korean Service Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Japanese Service Ribbon, Joint Service Commendation Medal, 3 Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star.

In addition to multiple tours in Vietnam and Korea, LCDR James also served at the Pentagon where he excelled in communication technology, LCDR James ended his service as a recruiting officer in Columbia, SC. After retiring from the US Navy, Mr. James sought employment with friends at Ed Smith Lumber and Hite's Little General Store, he also leant his knowledge of computer software to the SC Health Clinics. Lastly he served as park attendant at Gilbert Community Park.

Mr. James was also a doting father, who enjoyed sharing the love of his family every chance he got; his joy in life were his grandchildren and the sparkle in his eye belonged to his great grandchildren. Endearingly known to most as Dan Dan. Those that mourn his departure and long for the day, for which they will be together again are brothers, Johnny James, Bud James and Jim and wife Balinda James; daughter, Terry Smith; daughter, Linda and husband Brennon Guy; daughter, Jackie Lewis; son, Bobby and wife Mary James; daughter, Michelle James; daughter, Marsha DiCarpio; daughter, Wendy and husband Tom Wingard; daughter, Sharon Barkley; seventeen grandchildren; and seventeen great grandchildren. Upon entering into the gates of Heaven, Mr. James was forever united with this beloved wife, mother, and father, and son in law Paul Lewis.

The family will celebrate Mr. James' life with a private memorial. Milton Shealy Funeral Home and Crematory are assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at miltonshealy.com.