James Orville Fanning

James O. Fanning, known affectionately as “Fanbelt,” age 71, of Gardendale, AL, formerly of Black Oak, IN, passed away gracefully at his residence with his family at his side. He is preceded in death by his parents, Orville Fanning and Velma (Hill) Johnson.

James was the devoted husband of 52 years to June (Cooper) Fanning; loving dad to Tabitha (Shaun) Garner, Jessie Fanning and April (Ben) Spahr; proud Papa to Austen, Ethan, Shaun Bradley, Halie, Hayden and Corbin; cherished brother to Linda (Michael) Branley and Bruce Fanning; special cousin to Randy (Judy) Hill; and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

“Fanbelt” was a hazardous material driver for over 40 years. He had a strong passion for our military and often volunteered to pack boxes for our troops. James liked to follow his daughter, Tabitha’s military career by traveling to various places across the country. He cherished his weekly breakfasts with his son Jessie. He proudly supported April’s son, Hayden, through many events relating to Autism. Fanbelt enjoyed attending classic car shows with family and friends, and one of his life’s greatest achievements was restoring a 1933 Dodge delivery truck.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 3, 2022 from 11:00 am until the time of his Funeral at 1:00 pm, at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307. He will be laid to rest in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Autism Speaks by visiting autismspeaks.org in honor of James.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Fanning family.