James Deaner Sr.’s story began on the second day of May, 1946 — just the way he always said it whenever anyone asked his birthday. He was born in Harviell, Missouri, to the late Elssie Deaner and Mose. However, James was lovingly raised by his Uncle Curtis and Aunt Faye Taylor in Blytheville, Arkansas.

Rooted in a strong faith in God and guided by his family, James attended the Church of God in Christ. Like most boys, he loved being outdoors, riding his bike, and spending time with his good friend Vernon. He believed in working just as hard as he played, putting in long days doing construction alongside Charlie that taught him good work ethics.

In November of 1963, James enlisted in the United States Navy, driven by a desire to see the world. During his travels, he found something even greater than adventure — he met the love of his life, Moira, in Glasgow, Scotland. Together, they built a life and were blessed with two children, Bonnie and James Jr.

James was stationed at Naval Operating Base (NOB) in Norfolk, Virginia, where he honorably served until retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer (CWO4). During his years of service, James developed a love for racquetball and formed many friendships through friendly competition. He enjoyed playing daily with several of his buddies. These relationships grew into lifelong friendships that he cherished over the years.

Following his military retirement, James found joy in fishing, working in his yard, and making regular visits—at least once a year—to family in Arkansas, Missouri, and Ohio. He also enjoyed reading about foreign places and marking them on a map, never losing his curiosity about the world he once traveled.

James had a remarkable gift for fixing things. Whether rebuilding an engine or replacing a transmission, he worked with skill and confidence as though he had done it all his life. Wanting to remain active, he returned to the workforce, working as a diesel mechanic at Ryder for several years. He later joined Tidewater Express, where he worked for ten years before retiring permanently.

James deeply valued his family and friends and would do anything to help those he loved. Soft-spoken by nature, he spoke firmly when it mattered most. In recent years, his health began to decline, but he faced each challenge with strength and courage. When he grew weary, he expressed his readiness to rest.

On January 8, 2026, surrounded by family, James peacefully closed his eyes and entered eternal rest. While this chapter of his story has ended, his loving memory will live forever in our hearts.

Preceded in death, brother Dennis Deaner. Left to hold his memories are his children Bonnie & James Jr. His siblings, Mozetta Barnes (Red) of St. Louis, MO; Curtis Holeman (Tevel) of San Diego, CA; Dorothy Wilson of Cleveland, OH; Eddie Deaner of Buckeye, AZ: Willard Deaner of Cleveland, OH; Joe Deaner (Joyce) of San Diego, CA; Betty Armistad of Columbus, MS; Mary Harden (James) of Toledo, OH; Brenda Ferguson (George) of Cleveland, OH; Gary Deaner (Linda) of Poplar Bluff, MO. Special relatives, Dorothy Parnell, Arkansas; Mazella Bradley and preceded in death Pearlie Mae Reed, and Gloria Mae Perry, Osceola, AR. Special friend, Ardena Jordan.