Laurel, Mississippi - David had a unique upbringing as the eldest of 10 children born to Norman and Shirley James. David was raised in the city of Rivesville in the small community of Green Town. He loved music and was an accomplished guitarist. He had a great sense of humor and was warm and loving toward his family.

David loved life and he lived it well.

David Graduated in 1978 at the top of his class at Rivesville High School. He lettered in varsity football on their championship team. He was a lifelong WVU Football fan and no matter where life took him, always considered West Virginia his home. After graduation, he worked for time, for Consolidated coal mines, after which he proudly served his country in the Air Force as a Medic. After his time in the armed forces, he attended Youngstown University where he graduated with a degree in anthropology and archaeology. He retired this past summer with 32 yrs of service with the dept of forestry in Laurel Mississippi. There he raised a family with his wife Barbara.

He was the first Born and he is the first of his siblings to move on from this world.

He leaves behind his spouse and two loving Children. Mallory (Chris)Yates of Laurel Mississippi. and a son Zachery James also of Laurel. David leaves behind two adorable granddaughters who belong to Mallory and Chris. He is also survived by his siblings;

Lindsay James of Fairmont ,Debbie ( Bill) Six of Fairmont , Doug ( Nancy), James of Baxter ,Dawn (Jeff) Reese of Maryland ,Mike (Deanna) James of Fairmont ,Karen(Dan) James of Nevada ,Michelle (Jeff) Pethtel of Metz, Stephanie(Jeff) Moore of Kansas, and the Baby of the family Cathy (Terry)Bright , of a Rivesville. The Cousins he grew up with, Karen(Rusty) Smallwood of Fairmont and Jim(Jina) Bissett of Morgantown and numerous nieces , nephews, Aunts, Uncles , and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents Norman and Shirley James of Rivesville, His Grandparents Bobo(Bernice) and Earl James and one niece, Autumn Towns.

David's choice of interment was cremation.

We will always cherish every memory of David and carry him deep within our hearts. With the hope and comfort that one day, we will be reunited with him and our parents. A celebration of his life will occur at a later date, hosted by his siblings.