James Richard Ison

James Richard Ison, the man whose laughter was contagious and who could out-fish any angler on the lake, left this world for the great gig in the sky on March 31, 2025. Born on March 9, 1947, in the small town of Lambert, Mississippi, James's journey through life was as colorful and vibrant as the autumn leaves in his beloved Michigan. He departed from Pontiac, but his stories, memories, and the echoes of his laughter will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

James, known to those closest to him as Jim, was the beloved husband of Pamela, a partnership that was the epitome of love and mutual respect. Together, they navigated life's waters, both calm and choppy, and raised two fine sons, James (with his wife Gail) and Sean (with his wife Ronny). Jim was also the proud grandfather of Trevor, whose adventures and achievements were among his most treasured tales. He was a caring brother to Linda (with her husband George) Hidgon and Brenda (with her husband Kelly) Bryant. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Minuard and Sally Ison, who surely welcomed him with open arms and a hearty chuckle at the pearly gates.

For those who knew Jim through his professional life, he wasn't just a Clay Model Maker at General Motors—he was an artist, a creator of dreams on four wheels. His hands shaped the future, and his dedication to his craft was matched only by his commitment to his colleagues and the countless friendships he cultivated over the years. His workbench wasn't just a place of labor; it was a place of laughter, camaraderie, and occasional mischief.

Beyond the walls of General Motors, Jim's zest for life found expression in the great outdoors. He could often be found with a fishing rod in hand, whether at his peaceful home in White Lake or at his cabin in Onaway, Michigan. He knew every nook and cranny of those lakes like the back of his hand, each one a page in his encyclopedic knowledge of the local waters.

Jim was not only a master of the rod and reel but also a hunter with a keen eye. Deer, squirrels, pheasant, rabbit, and grouse—it didn't matter; if it moved, he could track it, though his heart was as tender as his humor was sharp. And let's not forget those casino trips! Jim could play the slots with the best of them, his laughter echoing through the cacophony of bells and chimes, his good-natured banter with fellow gamers making every roll of the dice a communal celebration.

But Jim's adventures weren't confined to the physical world. He was as adept with a joystick as he was with a fishing pole, carving out a reputation in the digital realm with the same affable spirit that made him a legend in the waking world. He was the "Life of the Party" both online and off, his sense of humor a beacon that drew people to him from all walks of life.

To say that Jim was loving, funny, and friendly is like saying the sky is blue or the grass is green—it's an understatement of cosmic proportions. His love was a shelter, his humor a lifeline, and his friendship a treasure. Jim was the kind of man who left an impression not just on a moment, but on the very fabric of time itself.

As we remember James Richard Ison, let us not dwell on the silence of his absence, but rather celebrate the symphony of joy he conducted with his existence. For in our laughter, our shared stories, and the irrepressible smiles he inspired, Jim lives on—casting a line, taking a shot, spinning the reels, and forever the 'Life of the Party.' Goodbye for now, Jim; save a seat for us at the cosmic comedy club, and keep the stories warm. We'll bring the laughter when we meet again.

Jim's family will gather on Monday, April 14, 2025 from 11:00 AM until his memorial service and celebration of his life 1:00 PM at the Elton Black & Son funeral Home, located at 1233 Union Lake Road, White Lake Michigan 48386.

Memorial contributions in Jim's memory may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, The American Heart Association, and the American Arthritis Foundation.

Please share a memory or condolence with Jim's family.