James E. Bird

Army veteran, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather was called home after a brief illness on July 20, 2024. He was 97.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Pat, his brother Bob, brother-in-law Don Hollenback, and infant great grandson Logan James Walker.

He is survived by his three children, Linda (Tom) Brinkman, Jim (Lynn) and Beth (Ralph) Watson, 5 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Jim’s wife of 32 years, Joyce Driggers Bird, survives with her 5 children, Lee (Pam), Jan (Phil) Merritt, Missy (Kathy Lynn), Guy (Hether) and Jay (Terri), 9 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Jim was retired from Indiana Bell after 35 years. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Indianapolis for over 60 years.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Rose Senior Living and the staff at Paradigm for their compassion and loving support.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 10th at First Baptist Church of Indianapolis, 8600 N. College Ave. with visitation at noon and service at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riley Childrens Hospital or First Baptist Athletics.

Online condolences at www.leppertmortuary.com