Eldon James

Eldon Ronald "Ron" James, 91, of Upland, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at University Nursing Center. Born May 6, 1934, in Huntington County to Herman L. and Nora (Riggs) James, Ron grew up with a strong work ethic, a deep love for family, and a quiet faith that shaped every part of his life.

A 1954 graduate of Jackson Township High School in Wells County, Ron later attended Tucker School for Skilled Trades, preparing him for a lifetime of dedicated work. He married the love of his life, Helen L. Alexander, on September 1, 1956. Together they shared 65 years of unwavering devotion, partnership, and laughter until her passing in 2021. Their marriage was a testimony of steadfast love and Christian faithfulness.

Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Brooklyn, New York. A former member of American Legion Post 368 in Van Buren, he carried his sense of duty and patriotism with quiet dignity throughout his life.

For more than 30 years, Ron worked for General Motors in Marion, where he became known for his reliability and solid craftsmanship. Prior to GM, he worked at RCA in Marion and assisted his father on the family farm-roles that reflected his steady hands and steady heart.

A devoted man of faith, Ron attended Epworth Church of Matthews and formerly worshiped at Union Chapel Baptist Church in Marion and Hartford City First Church of the Nazarene. He especially loved music and spent several years singing in a gospel quartet, lifting his voice in praise alongside some of his closest friends.

Ron believed in serving others and giving back to his community. As a member of the Upland Lions Club, he enjoyed fellowship and found purpose in helping meet local needs. He also found great joy in the outdoors-camping, being in nature, and appreciating the simple beauty of God's creation.

Above all, Ron cherished his family. He is survived by his sons Gary (Terrie) James of Hartford City; Bruce James of Myrtle Beach, SC; and Brad (Luchie) James of Indianapolis. He was blessed with grandchildren Joshua James, Julie (Christian) Rojas, Hope (Paul) Mukisa, Raphael Ramirez, Brandon (Bobbie) Dake, and Brady (Lauren) James; and great-grandchildren Maxwell, Eliza, Dario, Kedric Mukisa, Graclyn and Grayson Ramirez, Clark and Reese James, Taylor, Meadow, and Merrick Dake, and Dereck and Eden Rojas. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Mary Lou James.

Ron is preceded in death by his beloved wife Helen; his parents; his son Jeff James; and his brothers Garl, Richard (twins), Dwight (Mary Lou) and Delmer James.

Ron's family will welcome visitors at Jones-Smith Chapel, Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services on Friday, December 5, from 4:00-7:00 PM. Visitation will continue Saturday, December 6, from 10:00-11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place at Jefferson Cemetery in Upland.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Epworth Church of Matthews-an expression of Ron's lifelong faith and commitment to the church he loved.

The family invites friends to share memories and condolences at www.armeshuntfuneralhome.com.