James Lee Tingay Sr.

James Lee Tingay Sr., age 88, of DeWitt, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, November 10, 2024. Born on June 28, 1936, to Sheral and Laura Tingay in Lansing, James was a man whose life was defined by faith, family, and a deep sense of service.

A charter member of the Catholic Community of St. Jude Church in DeWitt, James was an active participant in the church, serving in many roles throughout the years. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. His faith was the guiding force in his life, and he shared it generously with those around him, putting others' needs before his own.

James grew up in DeWitt and married his beloved Patricia Fineis of Lansing in 1962 at Saint Therese Catholic Church, Lansing, MI. Together, they built a life full of love and devotion to each other, their children, their church, and their community. James was a cancer survivor and was honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Cancer Survivor Parade, a testament to his strength, perseverance, and spirit.

Known for his easy-going nature, good sense of humor, and compassionate heart, James was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was hardworking and always ready to lend a hand to family, friends, neighbors, and church members. James often said, "I may not have every want, but I have all I need." His selflessness and dedication to others touched the lives of many.

In his younger years, James enjoyed playing steel guitar, hunting, bowling, and golfing. As the years passed, he kept golfing but traded the other hobbies in for a new passion: taking pictures and video of his family, capturing the moments that meant the most to him. He worked for Michigan Bell and AT&T for 36 years, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic.

James served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1963, a service that further shaped the man he became—a man of integrity, loyalty, and service to others.

He is survived by his children: Ann Tingay, Sylvia Tingay, James L. (Shelly) Tingay Jr., Matt (Penny) Tingay, Mary (Ken) Barnes, and Greg (Amanda) Tingay; 18 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, and one on the way; his brother, Lauren “Larry” Tingay; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Virginia Hicok, Sylvia Lincolnhol, Nancy (Mark) Barrows, Judy (Bill) Thomas, David Fineis, Linda Walker, Gary Fineis, and Sue Hooper; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many dear friends.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia; his parents, Sheral and Laura Tingay; his siblings, Fredalice “Freddie” Ford and Grant Tingay; his grandson Christian Smith, his great-grandchildren, Layla Ames and William McLain.

The family wishes to express special thanks to those who cared for James in his later years, especially Amanda, Greg, and Andrew Tingay, and Michelle Flower.

James will be remembered for his loving heart, his kindness, and his unwavering faith. He leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew him and his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM, including story sharing at 7:00 PM and Rosary service at 7:30 PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11:00, preceded by visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Both events at St. Jude Catholic Church, 801 N Bridge St, DeWitt, MI. A committal service will be held on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 3:00 PM at DeWitt City Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Catholic Community of St. Jude or Harmony Cares Hospice.