Billy Frances James (Lebanon)'s Obituary
Billy Francis James, son of Adam and Fay Wright James, was born July 25, 1931, near Drynob, Missouri. He departed this life Saturday, June 30, 2012, in his home, near Lebanon, Missouri, at the age of eighty years, eleven months, and five days.
On June 11, 1955, he was united in marriage to Ruby Yvonne Armstrong, and to this union two daughters and two sons were born.
His parents preceded him in death.
Billy is survived by his wife, Ruby, of the home; two daughters, Sheila Neil, and her husband, Dale, of Belton, Missouri, and Sarah Lane, and her husband, Mike, of Lebanon, Missouri; two sons, Steve James, and his wife, Karen, and Shawn James, and his wife, Amanda, all of Lebanon, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Renee, Jason, Justin, Jared, Zachary, Wesley, and Melissa; five great-grandchildren, Vincent, Tristan, Nichole, Jacob, and Josiah; a sister, Betty Hess, of Lebanon, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.
He was born and raised near Lebanon, in Laclede County, Missouri. He served his country faithfully in the United States Army from February 12, 1952, until January 20, 1954. After being honorably discharged from the Army, Billy and Ruby made their home in Kansas City, Missouri, and Billy worked for Amco Transmissions for twenty-five years. In 1977, the family moved back to the Lebanon area, and Billy worked as a master mechanic, eventually owning and operating James and Sons Transmission Center along with his son, Steve.
At the age of thirteen, Billy was saved at Sunnyview Freewill Baptist Church, and had attended Sunnyview Church throughout the years.
In his spare time he enjoyed riding tractors and four-wheelers, fixing old cars, and tinkering with things. He also liked being outdoors and hunting. He possessed a delightful sense of humor, and lived a strong and healthy life. His family was very important to him and he especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Billy was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate his life and his accomplishments, and know that he will be remembered as a devoted family man, a dedicated worker, a patriotic citizen, and a good friend.
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