James Mason James

Jim James entered the gates of Heaven April 29, 2024. He is survived by his wife LaVonne of Reidsville, son Todd and wife Sarah Thompson, grandsons Hudson (Katie Klinefelter) and Holland, all of Greensboro. Jim retired from the IT department at UNCG and continued to be a “computer nerd”. He enjoyed his time at Carolina so much that he actually graduated from Belmont Abbey, while remaining a huge Carolina fan. Nothing could get him more worked up then watching Tar Heel basketball and screaming coaching tips to Dean and Roy.

 

He was a very supportive Dad, Grandpa, uncle and husband. He was there for every band concert (two generations) basketball, football, soccer, Bitty Ball game, and Pinewood Derby. He enjoyed annual Amtrak trips to Discovery Place, family trips to Myrtle Beach, and outings to local fairs and festivals with the grands. He taught them to make the best pancakes, to safely use woodworking and gardening tools, and how to be responsible men. When LaVonne started grad school and was unable to attend her first class, Jim went and took notes. He went with her on many regional and national Phi Theta Kappa trips, sometimes taking along his griddle and making pancakes for the entire chapter. He couldn’t tell a joke but bought thoughtful gifts. He was a supportive uncle to Wayne Watt) and Jennifer (Ridgway), attending school events and enjoying the annual selecting and carving of a jack-o-lantern.

 

He was a member of Guilford College United Methodist and sang in both choirs for several years. He was raised Baptist, but became a good United Methodist, once stirring stew all night in the snow. He was a charter member of the “Passages” Sunday School class.

 

He was a good photographer and captured many great moments but was rarely photographed himself. Jim was always on the lookout for the perfect handmade mug and had a collection of 100 beautiful examples.

 

Several health problems over the years greatly restricted his ability to enjoy many of the things he loved, but now he’s whole and enjoying long walks with Lilly, off leash.

 

His last act of service will be helping with Alzheimer’s research at WFU. A celebration will be held at 2:00 PM, July 13, 2024 at Guilford College United Methodist Church. Feel free to wear Carolina Blue. Donations to the church in his memory will be appreciated by the family.