James Stearns, Sr.

James F. Stearns, Sr. age 74, of Paw Paw, MI passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2017. He was born in Paw Paw, MI, the son of the late Frederick and Clara (DeLong) Stearns. James graduated from Paw Paw High School Class of 1960. He was a hard worker who was employed with the Upjohn Company where he worked in Research and Development and in 1995 retired after thirty-three years of service. During that time he also worked at the Gilmore Car Museum which led to his love of old cars. He also enjoyed collecting diecast model cars. James loved the Lord and was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Paw Paw as well as the Elks and Lions Club. When not working he loved to travel and spent many years going to Florida and went on an extended European trip. Jim enjoyed having fun and being with friends. He loved to go golfing, camping, listen to music, dancing, cooking or having a cup of coffee with friends. He had a great smile and laugh which made him a joy to know and be around. Above all, James loved his family and he leaves them with the legacy of a life well lived. On September 3, 1959, he was united in marriage to Donna Carr-Stearns. He was later married to Leslie Coffman. He was lastly married to Susan Hewitt-Stearns who preceded him in passing. He was also preceded in passing by two siblings, Charles "Chuck" Stearns and Corinne Stearns-Price. James is survived by three children, Laurie (Joan) Stearns, James Jr. (Laurie) Stearns, Jeffrey (Don) Stearns-Taylor; step-children, Jason and Shawn Coffman, Tony, Josh and Chris Leslie; seven grandchildren, Emily and Ryan Stearns, Grace, Avery, Makayla, Jacob and Christian Leslie; many nieces, nephews and friends. In accordance with his wishes cremation will take place and a celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at the Paw Paw Presbyterian Church, 120 Pine St, Paw Paw, MI 49079, at 11 AM with the Rev. Tiffany McCafferty officiating. Private interment will take place in Alaska, Michigan at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Great Lakes Caring Hospice, c/o the funeral home.