Leonard John James

Leonard John James, Jr., 75, passed away at his Copperhill home on Tuesday, September 6, 2016, after a courageous fight with cancer and other ailments. Despite recent medical conditions, he did so much with his time on earth while cherishing his wonderful life, family and friends.

Len was born and raised in Buffalo, NY, and graduated from Kenmore High School. He was proud to attend Union College in Schenectady, NY, on a scholarship from General Electric Corporation. While at Union College, he was introduced to Carol A. James on the "best blind date ever." In 1961, Len and Carol were married in Binghamton, NY. Len credited his life's happiness and successes to the unwavering love and support he received from Carol. Len and Carol were happily married for 55 years.

Len earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 1964 from Union College. He was an electrical engineer for General Electric Corporation and then entered the GE Management Apprenticeship Program. After his active involvement in the Jaycees, Len changed careers, working for the Schenectady NY Chamber of Commerce. He became the President of the Chamber of Commerce in Fulton County (Johnstown, NY), and went on to become the Executive Vice President of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (Glens Falls, NY). From 1986 to 1996, he held the position of the President of the Broome County Chamber of Commerce (Binghamton, NY). Len positively affected the business climates and organizations in every community he touched. He was a skilled leader who used his talents to inspire and change communities, making lifelong friends along the way.

In 1996, Len and Carol moved to the Copper Basin of Tennessee. They enjoyed their careers as small business owners, as they owned and operated the Stateline Village Store on Highway 64, in Copperhill, TN. After nearly 18 years, they retired in 2013.

Len enjoyed so many things including music, history, travel and his lifelong hobby of model railroading. He was an active member of the Tri-State Model Railroaders, Inc., as well as the Immediate Past President. He appreciated the fellowship and good working relationships he developed there while furthering a love for model railroading. Len was also a proud Buffalo Bills fan. Whether at home or on the road, he would not miss an opportunity to cheer on his hometown's team. Len was also a man of faith. He and Carol attended St. Catherine's Laboure Church in Copperhill, TN, when they were able.

Len was a lover of life, laughter, family and friends. His sharp wit and sense of humor will be remembered by all. Whether he was camping in the Adirondack Mountains, picnicking on the Ocoee River, fishing in Florida, visiting grandchildren, or on a cruise for the couple's 50th anniversary, he thoroughly enjoyed being with the family and friends he loved.

Len is survived by his devoted wife, Carol A. James, of Copperhill, TN; son, Michael D. James, of Leesburg, VA; daughter, Cheryl A. Foster (Michael Cade Foster), of Sweetwater, TX; and grandchildren, Jordan, Nicole, Tyler, Wyatt, John (Jack) and Emily. Len is also survived by his loving siblings, his brother, Karl James (Penny), of Darien Center, NY; and his sister, Ellen Kusel (Robert), of Spokane Valley, WA; as well as many treasured nieces and nephews. Len was predeceased by his parents, Leonard John James, Sr. and Mary Ann James; and by his sister, Kathryn Louise Sommers.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home, 1478 Blue Ridge Dr., McCaysville, GA, from 2-4 pm on Sunday, September 25, 2016. Father Tom Moser will offer a prayer at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions in Len's memory be directed to the Tri-State Model Railroaders, Inc., 6311 Lakeview Terrace, Douglasville, GA, 30135, or via PayPal gift to n.wtrainstsmri@gmail.com.