Dwight Dennis James, cherished family

D. Dennis James, 70, of Milton, formerly of Fremont, Calif., passed away Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, at home surrounded by his family, leaving behind treasured memories. He was the husband of Sheila James (née Sumpter), with whom he shared 37 happy years of marriage.

He was born in Akron, Ohio, in 1952, son of the late Henry James and Janet James (née Kline), and grew up in Western Springs, Ill.

Dennis was a graduate of Knox College with a bachelor’s degree in English, then went on to be granted his master of business administration from University of Illinois. He spent the majority of his career working for Visa, working his way to vice president of finance before retiring in 2004. 

Dennis remained an avid reader his whole life, always known to have his current book within reach at home. In his retirement, he enjoyed traveling the world, cooking delicious meals and breads in the kitchen, and spending warm summer evenings on the porch with a G&T and lively conversation, showing his wry sense of humor. Above all, his family mattered most to him. 

He and Sheila navigated life’s highs and lows with steady, unwavering support and love for one another. He adored his three children, Brigid James of Milton, Audrey James (Brian Faherty) of Alexandria, Va., and Bill James of Milton, and was a reliable source of love, advice, wisdom, and arcane knowledge. He is also survived by his brothers, Dr. Michael (Lisa) James of Mankato, Minn., and Tom James of Mankato; and sister, Christie Mitsch of Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.; many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; and dozens of beloved nieces and nephews. 

A memorial will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, at Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making donations to Milton Community Food Pantry, miltonpantry.org. He was a strong believer that in this land of plenty, no belly should go empty.

Final care for Dennis has been entrusted to Short Funeral Services, Milton. 

Online condolences may be sent to shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.