Donald Joe James

Wilkinson, Indiana – Donald Joe James, 85, passed away while being comforted by his family on January 18, 2026. A quiet man who was devoted to his family and wife, his steady presence will be forever missed by those who knew him.

Don was born in Hartford City, Indiana, on March 8, 1940, to parents Homer Wesley & Audrey (Ketterman) James. After his birth, they moved to Kansas and spent many years there. Don joined the Navy when he was old enough and served his country honorably until he left the military and took a job with JC Wilson. He worked there making aircraft and shuttle parts for over 25 years until his retirement.

Most importantly, Don met his beloved wife Sandra Jones, soon to be James, in 1960 and they were married on May 24, 1961. They celebrated 51 years of marriage together, until her untimely passing on April 14, 2013.

Don was an avid outdoorsman and found peace camping and fishing every chance he could. He also enjoyed perusing garage sales, checking out auctions, and bowling with his wife. When he was relaxing at home, it was often watching old westerns or sports with his family.

In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by his beloved Sandra James, 8 of his siblings, and two great-grandchildren.

Don is survived by his children; Tonya Martin (Michael), Tamera Alldredge (David), and Timothy Todd James (Barbara); grandchildren David, Wendi, Donnie, Jason, Ariel, Andrew, and Corey; sister Nadine Irene James; and ten great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Flanner Buchanan - Memorial Park (9350 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46229) on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 11 - 12 pm with funeral services following at 12 pm. Placement will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery following the service.