Benjamin “James” Thayer, of Billings, MO, went home to be with the Lord on April 27, 2025, at the age of 98. He was born in Billings, MO, to Bruce and Rose (Farris) Thayer and was one of six children in the home.

He served his country in the US Army. On July 22, 1945, he married Jessie Trotter, and they shared fifty wonderful years together until her passing in 1994. James then married Elnora (Miller) Parker in May 1995, and they have shared 30 years together. James owned and operated Thayer Automotive in Billings. When not working, he enjoyed tinkering with engines and pretty much anything mechanical. As of recently, James dabbled in making wood bird houses. But this would all stop if a set of dominos was placed in front of him. He enjoyed that game so very much, and the time it allowed him to spend with his family and friends. James was a longtime member of Elwood Full Gospel Word Church, since the early 1980’s. It was there that James met a special young lady, Christine “Tina” Vyborny, whom he took under his wing and became a father figure to. And in 2006, they made it official: James adopted Tina.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Jessie, siblings Dale Thayer, Glen Thayer, Charlene Mason and Zenobia Thayer.

James is survived by his wife, Elnora, daughter Christine “Tina” Vyborny, sister Shirlene Harter, step children Melody (Dennis) Silverberg and Melonie Roberts as well as three step grandchildren and other extended family and friends.

A visitation is scheduled for Thursday, May 01, 2025, at Meadors Funeral Home in Billings. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. and he will be laid to rest in Rose Hill Cemetery in Billings