James R. Wetherhold

James R. Wetherhold, 83, of Anderson, SC, formerly of Allentown, PA, passed away on Dec. 28th 2025. He was the husband of Susan K. Alatorre. Born in Allentown, he was the son of the late Richard K. and Lois A. Wetherhold. After graduating from William Allen High School, James spent most of his career as a sound engineer at Allen Organ Company in Macungie for many years until retiring. James was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He also enjoyed the company of his dog, Andy.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors, as well as to tinker and invent. He also enjoyed a good serious conversation as much as a good joke--he had a one-of-a-kind sense of humor. A good CMP sundae at the Ritz Barbeque in Allentown was something he looked forward to very often. It has been said that Jim played the best Santa Claus over the holidays at family gatherings.

Jim spent time volunteering at a JRM (Jamaican Relief Ministries) thrift store in Anderson, SC.

Survivors: Wife, Son: Ryan M. Wetherhold and his wife Kristi A. (Laubach), Stepson: Christopher D. Hallman, Grandson: Zion M. Wetherhold, Sisters: Jane, wife of Clifford Cummings; Janet, wife of William Stanley, Brother: Jeffrey Wetherhold and his wife, Lisa. Nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by a sister, Joanne Lucas, wife of Robert Lucas, as well as his stepson, Andrew Alatorre.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 27th at 12:30 P.M. at the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, 16th and Hamilton St. Allentown. A calling hour will be held on Friday, from 11:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. in the funeral home.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate and remember Jim's life at a catered luncheon at Ritz BBQ, 302 N. 17th St., Allentown, PA 18104.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: Jamaican Relief Ministries at: https://jamaicarm.org/donate/