Richard James

Richard James, 70, of Council Grove, KS, passed away peacefully in his home on September 19, 2018.

Richard, son of the late Henry and Freda James, was born in Cumberland, Maryland on February 22, 1948. He married Linda Lechliter on November 8, 1967. This union gave forth four children and six grandchildren. Richard was a man of many trades, which included anything from auto mechanic to home repair. If he couldn't fix it then it was broke. He graduated from Ft. Scott Community College School of Trucking in 1985 and then started his long haul career of 30 years within his own company. He then retired and drove part-time for misc. companies before finding his way to the bus barn and driving the school bus for USD 417.

He will be deeply missed by all that knew him. Richard was the type of man who would do anything for anyone without any questions asked. He would be described as ornery, yet the most genuinely nicest person you'd ever meet. His friendly smile was contagious and will never be forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Freda James; his sisters Betty, Barbara (John), Ethel (Sis), Elenora (Butch), and Linda; and his brother Henry (Sonny).

Richard is survived by his wife of fifty years, Linda James, of the home; sons Richard James & Jim of Gas, KS; Mark James and Leah of Clarendon, TX; daughters Jennifer Sommer and Adam of Council Grove, KS; and Kimberly James of Council Grove, KS; and 6 grandchildren: Bailey, Hunter, Caden, Cooper, Hannah, and Carter. He is also survived by one brother, Robert James of Alabama, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life ceremony is planned for Saturday, September 29, 2018, in the basement of the Flint Hills Apostolic Church at 102 S. 9th Street in Council Grove, KS, from 3 pm to 5 pm. All is welcome stop by to enjoy refreshments while sharing memories of Richard and giving condolences to the family. There will be no formal ceremony and wearing of casual clothing is encouraged.