Cornell E. James

Cornell Eugene James, age 84, of LaPorte, Indiana, died peacefully Monday morning, December 27, 2021, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

His life began October 24, 1937, in Calvin Center, Michigan the third of five children born to Vernell and Zerel James. Cornell married Juana “Biddy” Riddle on July 4, 1959, in South Bend, Indiana. After sixty-two years of marriage, she preceded him in death.  

Cornell was an outdoorsman. He loved fishing, hunting, camping, and gardening. He also enjoyed fixing up muscle cars and driving them fast. Cornell was a good father and husband. He was a devout Catholic and loved going to church. He was in The Knights of Columbus and made sure to help his neighbors.

Cornell will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by two daughters, Pamela (Duane) Palmer of Cassopolis, Paula James of Atlanta, Georgia; one son, Cornell E. James, II of South Bend, Indiana; seven grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; two great-great grandsons; one sister Sonya; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Ronald James, Warren James, and Michael James.

The family will observe a private remembrance. Mr. James will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife in Calvin Community Cemetery in Calvin Township, Michigan.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Cornell be made to St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 421 North Broadway Street, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cornell E. James, please visit our floral store.