James Ervin Bourne

James Ervin Bourne of Chesterfield, VA, went home to his Lord December 15, 2022, at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria B. White, and his brother, Horace Roy “Buddy” Bourne, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara Fitch Bourne; two daughters, Carol B. Denson and her husband Thomas and Deborah B. Downs and her husband Troy; two grandchildren, Rachael A. Downs and Sarah C. Downs; his sister-in-law, Betty Lou G. Bourne; and his niece, Helen Bourne. James worked in the transportation industry at Imperial Tobacco, RF&P Railroad, James River Paper Company, and Georgia Pacific. As a young man he served several years in the United States Naval Reserve. After retirement, he enjoyed working at Pleasants Hardware and earned his Master Gardener certificate. James was a Christian who loved his Lord, his wife, and his family. His daughters have many happy memories of camping with the family each summer. James always supported his daughters at music recitals and then his granddaughters at choral concerts, dance performances, and other events. Music always played an important role is James’ life; he played the clarinet and both the alto and tenor saxophone. A Sergeant in the John Marshall High School Corps of Cadets and Band from 1948-1951, he marched in many parades. After graduation, he played dance music with the Jimmy Yankovic Band. A long-time member of Ramsey Memorial United Methodist Church, he enjoyed singing in the church choir and taking part in the church’s Living Nativity. James also sang for several years with the Richmond Men’s Chorus. In recent years, James enjoyed playing his tenor sax with the John Marshall High Alumni Band. James will be dearly missed by his loved ones, who find comfort in knowing he is with his Creator. The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 22, from 2 - 4 PM and from 6 - 8 PM at Woody Funeral Home Huguenot Chapel, 1020 Huguenot Road, Midlothian, VA 23113. A funeral service will be held Friday, December 23, at 11 AM at Woody Funeral Home Huguenot Chapel. A graveside service will follow at Dale Memorial Park, 10201 Newbys Bridge Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832.