It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of our Dad, Johnnie L. James (1937-2025), in his comfy chair on June 13, 2025. He was born in Little Birch, WV and was the baby to six siblings. His work began on Sutton Dam in Sutton, WV then it took he and his family from East to West, North to South over the United States spanning over 50 years. He spent most of his career on nuclear and hydroelectric power plants. Johnnie came back to his roots with his wife, Marilyn, to retire in Gassaway, WV. He was an Army Veteran, a great dancer, and everything he owned was meticulously kept. He enjoyed RV travel with his family, playing pool and card games, and loved watching car races. Johnnie was a project mastermind, he would lose sleep trying to fix and build things in his mind. We could all count on him for good ideas!

Johnnie, also known as, Poppaw, is survived by his children, Johnnie Michael James and Jacqueline James Turner; his 4 grandchildren, Amber, Logan, Sadie, and Henry and his 2 great grandchildren, Natalie and James, his sister, Maxine (95), along with in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Johnnie donated himself to the Human Gift Registry through the WVU School of Medicine. A graveside memorial will be planned in the future at the Bender Run Church/Belknap Family Cemetery. The family requests any donations be made on his behalf to: The Old German Community Church, c/o Joyce Wayne, Treasurer, 8761 Chapel Rd. Gassaway, WV 26624.

Words of comfort and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.