Wise, VA-Barbara Jean James, 82, passed away Wednesday, January 21, 2026, after a long fight with cancer.
Born on June 24, 1943, she was daughter of the late Edward and Neita (Ervin) Anderson. She grew up in Dante, VA and spent most of her life in Castlewood, VA and Wise, VA.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Lawrence James.
Surviving are her two daughters, Vicky Fields Arend of Bristol, TN, and Michelle James Trent and husband, Edward Trent, of Wise, VA; one son, Michael Edward James and wife, Angela (Hobbs) James of Jacksonville, FL; four special grandsons, Colton and Ty Arney, Jordan Fields and Blake James; and one great grandson, Joscelin Fields.
A family gathering with a visitation will take place at Temple Hill Memorial Park, 2529 Memorial Drive in Castlewood, VA., from 1:00pm – 2:00pm on Thursday, January 29, 2026. The service will follow at 2:00pm with Pastor Jim Pratt officiating.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the James Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.