James Lee Durham

James Lee Durham, age 86, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, August 4th, after thirteen years of living with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born February 24th, 1929, in Mallory, West Virginia, and was the eighth child of Reverend and Mrs. Joseph E. Durham. James married Jane Halstead (Durham) on November 11th, 1949. A gifted carpenter and drywall finisher, he worked with multiple contracting companies throughout his career, and his handiwork is reflected in numerous buildings throughout the Louisville area. His carpentry talent and love of railroads, developed at an early age, fueled his passionate hobby of creating miniature and garden railroads. Known as “Mr. D” in the St. Matthews area for his front yard garden railroad, he entertained local and regional families and school groups for more than 20 years. James’ other passion and talent was for singing. He was one of the founding members of The Masters Men Chorus at Southeast Christian Church. He was the first recipient of The Masters Men’s “Spirit of the Master” award in 1995 and also received 15 year and 25 year honorary awards during his tenure with the chorus. James was a grand storyteller, devoted father and husband, and a creator of joy and wonder for his family and strangers alike. He is survived by his wife of 65 years (Jane Halstead Durham), four children Mary Jane Taylor (Bill), Margaret Steinhauser (David), James Durham, Jr. (Jerri), and Melissa Scheben, eight grandchildren (Robert, Allyson, Josh, Kimberly, Sara, Katie, Stefan, London) and five great-grandchildren (Zoe, Jake, Lauren, Peyton, Bryce). Family and friends will be received for visitation 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Friday, August 7th, at Southeast Christian Church (920 Blankenbaker Parkway) with funeral services beginning at 1:00pm. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on behalf of the family to the Alzheimer’s Association.