Horace Connell James

Horace Connell James, left this earthly life for his heavenly home January 6, 2021. He was born July 20, 1927, son of the late McCagey Thomas James and Susan Jones James. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 72 years, Naomi Bowen James, on April 22, 2020. He was also predeceased by brothers Ralph, Russell, Rucian, Thelbert, and Jeffrey James, sisters Annie Gurganus and Reba Wooten.

Recipient of the American Area World War II Victory Medal, Horace honorably and proudly served his country in the United States Navy. At the Naval Air Station, Norfolk Virginia, he was assigned to the NAS Police Department, working as a prison guard and radio dispatcher. His tour of duty on the USS Chikaskia AO-54   took him across the world to places such as the Mediterranean Sea, Suez Canal, Red Sea, Yokosuka Japan, Piraeus Greece, Singapore China, and Persian Gulf. He was a dedicated employee of JP Stevens Carter Plant/StevCo Knit from 1951-1993, retiring in 1993 as shift supervisor. With 65 years of American Legion Post 156 continuous membership, he faithfully served his community and held leadership positions as Post Commander and Post Adjutant. He had a special place in his heart for Post 156 and took great pride in being a part of that organization. He cared deeply for the Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church where he was a lifelong member. He was well respected for wise counsel over the years, always able to keep a vision for the church alive.  He served as deacon on numerous occasions, and at the time of his death continued to serve as a senior elder.

Horace is survived by daughter Emily James Rivenbark, and son-in-law Steve of Fuquay Varina NC, granddaughter Kristen Rivenbark Kubitz and husband Eric of Fort Mill, SC, grandson Jess Rivenbark, four great grandchildren Cameron and Weston Kubitz, Ayden and Emmy Rivenbark, a sister Eleanor Cieliesz of Jacksonville, NC, sister-in-law Mabel James of Siler City, NC and an extended family of nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Beloved father, G-daddy, brother and uncle, we will always remember his love of family, his easy-going nature, his humble spirit and incredible patience. “Mr. Horace” was a friend to all.

A private burial with military honors took place January 12, 2021, Riverview Memorial Park, Watha, NC.

There will be a celebration of life and memorial service honoring the life of Horace James on Sunday, June 6, 2021 at Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church at 3:00 p.m.

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