James Ray Herndon went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at the age of 66. The son of James Edgar and Peggy (Tenney) Herndon, James was born June 23, 1949 in Charleston, West Virginia. James honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. On July 2, 1971, after returning from the military, James married his true love, Patricia Elaine Wilson and together shared more than 44 years of marriage and raising a family. James retired after 34 years of dedicated service from Cameron Tools where he worked as a master machinist, specializing in butterfly valves. James enjoyed working with his hands inside and out, doing various woodworking and science projects along with swimming with his grandsons. James also enjoyed spending time at the lake playing and working with his in-laws, Leo and Lucille Wilson and all his extended family. James most enjoyed being with his family. A loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, James will be deeply missed. James was preceded in death by his: Parents. James leaves cherished memories with his loving: Wife of 44 years, Patty Herndon of the home; Daughter, Melissa DeWitt and her husband, Scott; Sister, Darlene Stevens; 3 Grandchildren: Lance, Brenden, and Andrew James; A host of other loving family, friends and co-workers.