James R. Alvis

Jim was born in Indianapolis on November 22, 1942. He attended Nora Grade School and graduated from North Central High School in 1960. He went on to Purdue University and completed a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Industrial Supervision.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edmond O. Alvis, M.D. and Josephine M. Alvis; sister, Margaret Jane (C. Philip) Alvis Smiley; brother, David L. (Patricia K.) Alvis, M.D. He is survived by his wife, Judith G. Bernhardt Alvis, four stepchildren, Scott A. (Anne) Willis, Kevin J. (Gayle) Willis, Todd M. (Lisa) Willis, Micheline H. (Bill) Johnson; six step-grandchildren; two step-great grandchildren; and nephew David. E. Smiley.

Jim was a member of the U.S. Air Force Reserve unit at Columbus, Indiana. He enlisted in the 434th Troop Carrier Wing at Bakalar Air Force Base on December 2, 1964, and was honorably discharged on December 1, 1970. He was a veteran of the Vietnam war, having served at Phan Rang Air Base with the 71st Special Operations Squadron from Columbus, IN from January 1969 to June 1969 as a crew chief on AC-119G “Shadow” gunships. He and Judi attended frequent AC-119 Gunship Association annual reunions, as well as frequent gatherings of 71st Special Operations Squadron members.

Jim worked at Citizens Gas & Coke Utility (now Citizens Energy Group) for 31 years, then ProLiance Energy and Roberts Camera in Carmel. He was an avid auto racing photographer, having photographed seventeen Indianapolis 500s and numerous professional road racing events. He was a life member of the Commemorative Air Force (formerly Confederate Air Force), AC-119 Gunship Association, Disabled American Veterans, a member of the American Legion, National Museum of the United States Air Force, Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum, and the National Corvette Museum. He has been an avid Corvette owner and enthusiast and is known to have frequently visited Northwood Drive-In during high school where he was first introduced to Corvettes.

Jim married the love of his life, Judith. G. Bernhardt, on October 22, 1994. He and Judi enjoyed many activities together with family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 8, 2024 at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, 325 East Carmel Drive. Visitation will be from 12 noon until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum or to Indy Honor Flight. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com