James "Pete" C. Louden

James was born in Franklin County, August 31, 1937, to John James and Mamie “Beulah” Stacy Louden and attended Fairfield School in Franklin County. Many know him as the patriarch of the Louden Family, and many may know him as an accomplished welder, and millright. He loved the Reds, to hunt for morel mushrooms, to cultivate ginseng, and he frequented the best crappie fishing very few folks know about in this region. James enjoyed bowling and had been active in the Union County Babe Ruth League and Summer League Softball. His departure from this world can be appended to his list of subtle accomplishments which drew his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren even closer together as a family. His life had defining moments that will frequently be shared by those that love him.

James is survived by his wife: the former Kathy Embry; his children: Debra J. Louden and her significant other, Jeffrey Jenkins of West College Corner; Anthony C. Louden of Liberty; Michael D. Louden and his wife, Mary Lou of Camden, Ohio; Marty A. Louden and his wife, Annette; Melissa F. Browning and her husband, Adam, all of Liberty; Andrea Louden Horton of Augusta, Georgia; Kacey Louden of Noblesville; Mayce Louden Oliver of Richmond; Georgetta Hartman and her husband, Brett of Liberty; a step-son: Jeff Chandler of Columbus, Ohio; nineteen grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and his former wife: Sabra Louden of Connersville.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his first wife: Joyce Sexton Louden, who died May 31, 1975; an infant daughter: Pamela Louden; a daughter: Peggy McCracken; a brother: Robert “Bob” Louden; a sister: Betty Beard; and an infant granddaughter.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday at Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Fosdick Chapel, Liberty, with Pastor David Soper of the Liberty Church of Christ officiating. Friends may visit at the funeral home from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday where memorial contributions may be made to the Union County Foundation Cancer Support Fund. For additional information and to send condolences or memories, go to www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com or scan here: