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Ronald James Obituary
He was born in Parkersburg and raised by parents Archie and Hazel James in Red Hill with siblings: the late John James of Glenville, Clara Board of Little Hocking, OH and the late Mary Kathryn Carter of Gallipolis, OH. He graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1955, then attended Alderson-Broaddus College where he met Annette Cunningham, who would become his wife. After graduating, he received his Master of Divinity from Colgate-Rochester Divinity School and became the pastor at East End Baptist Church in Williamsport, PA. In 1968, he returned to Alderson-Broaddus as campus Chaplain. He served as the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Shinnston from 1975-2000. After his retirement, he served as interim pastor in Maryland at Luther Rice Memorial Baptist Church, Olney Baptist Church and Greenbelt Baptist Church. In his second retirement, he taught adult Sunday School at Charleston Baptist Temple. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 1996 and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree in 2014, both from Alderson-Broaddus University.
Rev. James will be remembered for his deep Christian faith, love of family and his unique sense of humor.
He is survived by Annette L. James, his wife of over 64 years, his daughter Janet James and partner Barbara Wright of Charleston, his son Eric James and son-in-law Dan Guller of Darien, CT and his grandsons Ben Agsten of Raleigh, NC and Elijah Guller-James of Darien, CT, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
There will be a memorial service at Charleston Baptist Temple (209 Morris St.) on January 11, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with service at 11:00 AM and a reception to follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronald James
Mark Hudson, Ph.D.
October 3, 2025
Ron was one of the most genuine and devout men I have ever met. He was an enormous influence in my life. We moved apart after I left A-B but occasionally I would see him and his wonderful wife Annette. I think of him often and his lessons still guide me. His presence will remain with so many students and parishioners.
Thank God for men like Ron and women like Annette.
Mary Bolin, CPK
December 18, 2024
Annette and Ron, Ron and Annette. I knew Ron because I know Annette. They came as a packaged deal. Delightful. Funny. Jesus loving. Pray-ers. They enjoyed one another. Annette and I have been colleagues in the Profession of Kinlein for over 40 years. Ron was integral to Annette's study and practice in this profession. Kinleiners from Maryland to Alaska will grieve Ron's passing. Whenever someone we love dies, an empty space is left where that relationship once was. What we fill that space with can make a difference in living in hope or in despair. My prayer, Annette, is that God will fill that space in you with His love, comfort, and hope.
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Skip (Charles) and Carol Ervin
December 18, 2024
Ron will be remembered by everyone who knew him as an inspiration and also as one of their all-time favorite people. Our sympathies and love to the family.
Duane Dunn
December 17, 2024
I will always remember his laughter and his jokes.
Tawn Watkins
December 16, 2024
I have treasured memories of Rev. James at First Baptist Church where his sermons touched all our hearts. He baptized my dad when he was 64 years old, and that is a memory I will always hold onto. I´m sure he and my dad are having a wonderful chat. You will be missed Ron James!!
Tawn Watkins
Micha Moore
December 16, 2024
Ron was a cherished friend. He married Mark & I 47 years ago. We watched their children grow up. He performed many services for our family. Ron & Annette were wonderful friends and we miss them. God bless their family.
Rev. Charles Bailey
December 16, 2024
My condolences to the family. Ron was a great man of God. He was a great storyteller and guided me early in my ministry at Olney Baptist Church.
Philippa Forbes-aAd@ms
December 16, 2024
Oh missed him, my condolences to the family he was always happy whenever he would come to dinner at harmony , all my blessings to Mrs James and the family
Joyce Waltz (Bee) Daniels
December 16, 2024
I have very fond memories of Ron, especially at the time he officiated at my marriage to Fred. Janet and Annette, my thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Love, Joyce
Pattye Ashley jackson
December 16, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss.
Pattye Ashley Jackson
Cobby Potter-Davis
December 16, 2024
He was such a wonderful person. I remember him fondly from classes and many converstions at AB. I know he will be greatly missed. I am sending hugs to you Mrs.James. Cobby Potter-Davis Class of 1975 BSN
David and Janey Carrico.
December 16, 2024
We remember Ron fondly for his humor which he shared even as he shared the Gospel!! A fine man of God and supporter of the WVBC.
Dr. Rick Dodson
December 16, 2024
Back in 1976, Ron offered my fiancee (Mary) and I premarital counseling. One of the things he shared with us was to be sure to remember a special moment during our wedding. So, during the ceremony, I happened to catch his eye and without hesitation, he stuck out his tongue at me. It was hilarious!!!
Chris Gavin Jordan
December 16, 2024
Mrs. James, I was saddened to hear of your husband´s passing. Fifty years ago Pete and I had the honor of him marrying us and I had the privilege of having you as an instructor. My prayers are with you.
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