The Thanksgiving before my grandpa passed away we got to visit him at my Aunt Brenda and Uncle John’s house. I’m so grateful for that experience. I am happy because my children got to meet and feel the love of their great grandpa. I’m so grateful that he blessed my life and will never forget how fun and loving he was to be around.

The day I came home from the hospital…#7! Even though there were 6 of us he loved us all the same! Miss you so much, Dad! My parents were perfect! I’m very grateful because of this!

Singing “Country Roads” with Grandpa 

I had the privilege of being Jim’s son-in-law for the past 31 years. Marrying into a family is never easy, even when religious beliefs are the same.  After several years of trial, a bridge of mutual understanding was built between my in-laws and myself.   My mother-in-law became a friend and advocate.  My father-in-law became more appreciative of who I was as a man and father of five of his 20 grandchildren.

My mother-in-law passed away in 2005.  As the years without her passed, my relationship with my father-in-law grew.  He enjoyed getting emails with pictures and our brief phone calls.  In the last three years of his life, my wife and I had the privilege of relieving my sister and brother-in-law as they lovingly and faithfully cared for him full time.  Helping to occasionally step in to provide care for my father-in-law brought me into closer connection with him.  I heard stories of his childhood, early marital life, service in Korea, working at Camp Pendleton, and how much he missed my mother-in-law.  I watched old TV reruns with him, prayed with him, and performed the most intimate acts of care.  This time was most precious to me.

The loss my wife, children and I feel cannot be expressed.  Our eldest daughter, Cassie, was at laying next him singing when he passed away. 

As a family we take comfort in these words from the Apostle Paul, 

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him…For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

I was just a little girl when Jim came into the family.  A man with a big heart and a big smile and great hugs.  I will miss him.  May you all find comfort in all of the wonderful family memories and knowing he sleeps and we will soon see him again when Jesus comes to take us all home. 

My earliest memories of family togetherness always included Jim.  I was just a little girl who loved this happy man.  I will miss him. 

Dad on my wedding day 31 years ago.  He was always there for me.

I am so grateful that through the Drayson pool I was able to meet Jim.  We spoke everyday about our two favorite TV shows The Waltons and Little house on the prairie.  He shared with me so many stories and memories.  He was so friendly to every person he met.  He never forgot a name.  He was so social.  He could talk for hours and knew so much about so many things.  He truly was the life of the party.  He lit up any place he was with  those big sparkly blue eyes and big bright smile.  When he stopped going to the pool I visited him at his daughters home and enjoyed those visits very much.  I feel so very blessed to have known him.  He was like a dad to me.  I respected and adored him. What an amazing man!!!  God has truly gained an angel.  I love you and miss you Jim. 

Natalie and I met Jim in the pool over a decade ago, he shared many fantastic stories (his recollection was to envy). A friendly long lasting bond was created instantly as I saw him as the father figure I never had. It’s been quite an honor to have met him and stay in touch over the years, he was a genuinely loving & caring Man that will be greatly missed. 
Respectfully 
Sincerely 
J.B. Hunt
Dan

Jimmy was my friend. His life give me a true example of what a man of G-d is. 

Jimmy will live in my memory as a  testament to leading by example.  Acceptance of things put in your life without complaint. Having no fear displaying unconditional love to everyone.

May Jimmy rest in peace. 

My sincere condolences to Jim's family and friends. I worked with Jim at NWS Fallbrook, starting in 1983 until his retirement.  He always had a huge smile on his face and was eager to assist anyone with whatever they needed - a great person to work with. 
I've kept up with and chatted with Jim via e-mail and phone for the last five plus years.  He never failed to entertain me with stories, photos and updates on his health.

Fair winds and following seas, Good Buddy!

Jim Francis

OBITUARY

James Robert Anderson

August 31, 1929 – July 7, 2023

McWane Family Funeral Home

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