Mr. James Alvin Walley

James “Jim” A. Walley passed away on March 25, 2021 at the age of 67 after suffering a heart attack and stroke. Jim was born in Minnesota and moved with his family to Boise, Idaho when he was ten years old. He graduated from Borah High School in 1972.

After living the life of a traveling musician, Jim settled in the Rogue Valley and pursued a degree in music education. He taught choir and guitar at the middle and high school levels for 28 years. Throughout his career, his choirs competed and won many honors. Jim also helped coach football and wrestling, and many recognize his distinctive voice as the “Voice of the Crater Comets” that announced so many football and basketball games.

Saddled with an accordion at the tender age of four, Jim had no choice but to become an excellent musician. He quickly moved on to learn drums, guitar, bass, and numerous other instruments, including his beloved hammer dulcimer. Jim was always involved in a musical group of some sort, from rock bands to chamber choirs, and he even did some recording work for local artists. At the time of his passing, he was the drummer for a local band, Ring of Trees.

Jim made an impact on countless lives throughout his teaching career. He was also an inspiration to many in his church family through his musical participation on various worship teams. One of the most rewarding experiences of Jim’s life was his involvement in the Awana program at his church during his retirement years.

Jim leaves behind his wife of almost 41 years, Lori; their daughter, Emily; and her husband, R. He is also survived by his first wife, Kathy. He is remembered by sisters, Donna and Susan, and their families; brothers, Mike and Chris; and by family members in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Minnesota.

Services will be held at Community Bible Church in Central Point on Saturday, April 10, at 11:00 am. A livestream of the service will be available on the church’s website and Facebook page.