My condolences to James family and friends. James was my classmate in Grade School at Ivydale and he has remained my friend all these years. I have always treasured our friendship. Until we meet again!

Posted by Maude Douglas Lance on March 31, 2026

Upon my move to West Virginia, Jim was the first friend I made. He stopped by the house I was renting along route 4 and said there was a flower he would like to dig over on the bank. I told him to go for it. Periodically after that, he would stop by and see how I was getting along. He never stayed more than a couple of minutes before heading off to his candle shop in Flatwoods. Jim would come down to our gazebo, overlooking the Elk River, and join in a card game of “Rummy”. Towards the end of a round in the game and when cards started getting scarce, Jim would ask: “does anyone have any kings”. It of course caught us off guard and we wondered what in the world he was thinking being that reference was associated with our youthful days of playing “Go Fish”. That left us temporally dumbfounded, in which, everyone smiled when we realized he was just having fun. Another link to the area’s past history of: “Who did What” and “Where was That” has been taken from us. My friend Jim will always hold a special place in my memories.

Posted by Gene Church on March 31, 2026

Many prayers for his family and friends. I have bought many items from Lost Road Candles. I spent many years working at the mall with Jim and enjoyed talking with him. He was the most kind and caring man. Rest easy Jim. I will miss you.

Posted by Helen Nicholson on March 31, 2026