James Edward Spray

James Edward Spray died suddenly and unexpectedly on September 22, 2022. Jim was born to Arthur “Bud” Spray and Deloris Spray in Detroit, MI. Arthur and Deloris fought hard to bring Jim into the world and Jim was determined to make it count.

He graduated from Michigan State University on a swimming scholarship and completed the ROTC program. He then went on to fly F-111’s as a Weapon Systems Operator “Wizzo” out of Cannon, NM and Upper Heyford, UK for 6 years. He loved to tell the story of the lightning strikes or engine flameouts. He served as an Air Liaison Officer out of McCord in Tacoma, WA. At one point, he was the highest ranking officer in Kuwait. His call sign was “Bug”. Get it? Bug Spray.

After being honorably discharged, he worked various jobs for the remainder of his life. “Whatever puts food on the table,” he would say, and no job was beneath him. Jim was kind and patient, always willing to help. A dedicated father and husband. His bright blue eyes and genuine smile would make anyone’s day better. Jim’s door was always open as proven by the many teenagers/young adults that found refuge in his home. Most things were met with a sense of humor and a great story. Oh, Jim was a great story teller!

Some words from the family:
“My Dad grew up on the streets of Detroit and now he lives on the side of a mountain and makes his own soap!” Stephanie, daughter. “Words aren’t enough to capture the man he was, but if I had to choose, it would be that ‘He showed up,’” Samantha, daughter. “Bad Ass Uncle Jim,” Catherine, niece. “There was nothing he loved better than a spirited debate, and he was always gracious enough to admit you were wrong all along!” Tom, brother in law.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy, his 4 children, Samantha Spray (James), Stephanie Catterfeld (Kegan), Jaden Hodges, Arthur Spray, and 2 grandchildren, Ella and Jaxxen, as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews, and 1 sister, Jan Cook (Tom), and his father. He is preceded in death by his mother.

His service will be held at Allen-Hall Mortuary (34 E. Center in Logan) on Friday, Sept. 30th at 2:30 p.m. with a viewing at 2 p.m. Close friends and family are invited to the Spray residence following the service.
Messages may be sent to the family online at www.allenmortuaries.com .