James Scott Southard

James Scott Southard, 87, of Vandalia, died peacefully, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

His life began January 16, 1938 in Middletown, Ohio. the first of three born to Carroll Dean and Viola Jean Southard. He married Arlene Kiner, March 16, 1991 in Middlebury Indiana

Jim served honorably in the U.S. Air Force.  He was an electronic engineer and had his own company, Designco, and was a project manager for several international airports.  Jim and Arlene traveled the world together with Scott and Glenda Southard. Jim and Arlene attended Kessington Church. He loved music, playing the organ and guitar. Jim was a member of the Elkhart County North Camp of Gideons International. He also enjoyed drawing, especially with his grandchildren.  Jim built the family home himself and could often be found out cutting wood for their wood burning stove. He had many friends and didn’t know a stranger.  Most of all Jim loved spending time with his family.

Jim will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his wife of thirty-four years, Arlene Southard of Vandalia; five daughters, Robin (Doug) VanZile of Vandalia, Beth Iavagnilio of Elkhart, Kristin (Larry) Christopulos of Bristol, Karla (John Schirripa) Kiner of Dowagiac, Karen (Doug) Anderson of Niles; one son, Scott (Glenda) Southard of Colorado Springs, Colorado; twelve grandchildren; twenty- three great grandchildren; seven great-great grandchildren; one brother, David (Kris) Southard of Terre Haute, Indiana and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Ruth Marilyn Work.

Family and friends will gather Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 Noon in Chapel Hill Missionary Church, 14525 Chapel Hill Street (corner of Baldwin Prairie Road), Jones, Michigan.  Jim will be laid to rest in Plum Grove Cemetery in Union, Michigan.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Jim be made to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, Indiana 46637

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

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