Donald N. James, PO 2, US NAVY (RETIRED)

Donald N. James, PO2, US Navy (Retired), passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. He was born at Watts Hospital in Durham, North Carolina on September 4, 1942 to the late Ira and Wilma Ruth James.

In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by wife of 43 years, Carolyn James; brothers, Joe James and Tommy James and his sister, Carol Riggsbee.

Donald proudly served his country in the US Navy. Don started his Naval careers in 1964 and in 1969 joined the Naval Reserve until he retired in 1995. During his career he served in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Donnie joined American Legion Post 161 in Creedmoor.

Donnie also retired from IBM where he worked as a Line Stock Operator for over 25 years. His hard work and good sense of humor made him wonderful friends over the years.

Donald was a devout Christian man. He became a member of First Baptist Church of Butner in 1975 where he served as a Deacon for many years and was a member of the Choir. Don loved his church family and enjoyed doing anything to help with functions at the church.

Donnie was an avid sports fan especially for the Duke Blue Devils. He recently took up watching hockey and enjoyed cheering the Hurricanes on. Most importantly he enjoyed time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Donald will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and sibling. He was always a good provider, willing helper and committed caregiver. He will be deeply missed by everyone blessed to have known him.

Mr. James is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Linda James; son, Norman James; daughter, Ruth Wilkins (Brian);                 grandchildren, Justin Wilkins (Tonya), Bridgett Wilkins, Amber Wilkins and Wynonna Jarrells; great-grandchildren,             Easton Wilkins, Sutton Wilkins and Hadlee Wilkins and numerous other loving family members.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Butner, 200 W. D St., Butner, NC 27509. Interment will follow at Carolina Memorial Gardens in Creedmoor, NC. Rev. Blaine Britt will officiate.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Justin Wilkins, Zack Chappell, Robbie Riggsbee, Terry Riggsbee, Barry Wilson, David Kearney.

The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 10:30 A.M.

Flowers are acceptable or donations made in Don’s name may be made to First Baptist Church of Butner.