James Harvey Short

The Lord called James Short home on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of Pilot Knob Baptist Church.
James knew his time was near and told his wife and children that he was ready to go see his mama. Though he wanted them to come with him, he knew they had to stay. He reminded them not to forget him, for he loved his family deeply and carried them in his heart always.
In the days since his passing, his loved ones have gathered to share stories, laughter, and memories while looking through photos that capture a life well-lived. James was a special man to so many-known for his kindness, his humor, and his ability to make everyone feel like family.
James' legacy continues through his beloved wife of 61 years, Peggy Short; his children Cathy Weaver, Michael Short, and Greg (Norma) Short; and his grandchildren Jordan (Brooke) Black, Tyler (Miranda) Black, Casey Short, Madison Short, Dillon Short, Leah Short, and Mayci Short, along with eight loving great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Keith (Carolyn) Short and Kenneth (Sharon) Short, and one sister Della Casteel and by many nieces and nephews. James shared a special bond with his brother-in-law, Bradley Montgomery. Many days, the two could be found sitting on the front porch, swapping stories and drinking coffee with lots of laughter. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, J.C. and Rosie Short; his son, Jimmy Short; a grandson, Dustin Short; his brothers Charlie, Ray, Wayne, and Leslie Ray; and his sister Geraldine Lowder.
James was a loving husband, father, and grandfather - and a true friend to everyone he met. He never met a stranger and could out-talk anyone around. He enjoyed bringing old things back to life - from muscle cars and old trucks to the many homes he restored in Berea. A perfectionist in all he did, James believed you could accomplish anything if you put your mind to it. That spirit shone brightly in his passion for classic cars, especially his 1946 Chevrolet truck and 1967 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport, with which he won many trophies.
At heart, James was a country boy who loved being at home. Though he never lingered long in one place, he'd always sit and share a cup of coffee - and if you stopped by to visit, you knew that one minute would turn into twenty as he told his stories.
James will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory and the love he gave will live on forever in the hearts of those he touched. James retired from both Berea College and the City of Berea.
Funeral services for James will be Tuesday Nov. 11, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Silver Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Jimmy Ashcraft officiating. Burial will be in the Pilot Knob Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dee Robinson, Jordan Black, Tyler Black, Casey Short, Keith Short, and Kenneth Short. Honorary Pallbearers will be Wayne Robinson, Gale Clark, Curtis Lester, Billy Linville, Tommy Bussell, Rodney Short, Bobby Short, and Dillon Short. Visitation for James will be Monday evening Nov. 10, 2025, at Silver Creek Baptist Church from 6-9 pm. Lakes Funeral Home in Berea handled the arrangements.