Jerry Doyle James

Jerry Doyle James, 77, of Little Hocking, Ohio, formerly of Jane Lew, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Muskingum Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation in Beverly, Ohio.

Born November 4, 1948, in Salus, Arkansas, Jerry was the son of the late Doyl and Lora Rylee James.

Jerry was a man who spent his life working hard and providing for those he loved. A skilled dozer operator and truck driver, he devoted many years to operating heavy equipment and hauling on the road, most recently working for John Watson Trucking. Those who knew Jerry knew he was happiest behind the controls of a piece of machinery, moving earth and shaping the land with the steady hands of someone who had spent a lifetime mastering his trade.

Outside of work, Jerry had a deep love for the outdoors and especially riding horses, something that brought him peace and joy. Whether working, riding, or simply spending time with family, Jerry lived a life built on perseverance, loyalty, and the simple values of hard work.

Above all else, Jerry treasured his family. His greatest pride was the large family he helped build and the many memories shared across generations.

Jerry is survived by his children: Ginger E. Somerville of Tuppers Plains, OH; Jerry A. James (significant other Tanya Ball) of Lost Creek, WV; Carol L. Pifer (Jon) of Little Hocking, OH; Melissa D. Callihan of Jane Lew, WV; Daniel S. James (Ciera) of Beverly, WV; and Andrea A. Feather (Logan) of Weston, WV.

He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Justin G. Somerville (fiancée Kayla Swiger) of Weston, WV; Sarah E. Somerville of Tuppers Plains, OH; Cody M. Somerville (Chasity) of Metz, WV; Derek A. James (significant other Brie) of Clarksburg, WV; Cole C. James (Taylor) of Clarksburg, WV; Whitney G. James (significant other Dillon Murphy) of Salem, WV; Natasha R. Anderson (Dustin) of Waterford, OH; Devan J. Pifer (Casey) of Waterford, OH; Alex G. Callihan (Brandi) of Laurel Park, WV; Ian S. James of Morgantown, WV; Ryan H. James, Lillian S. James, and Ellie L. James of Beverly, WV; Frank L. Feather and Lexi B. Feather of Weston, WV.

Jerry also leaves behind many cherished great-grandchildren: Bentley, Bralyn, Bryer, Noah, Blaykin, Oaklynn, Kyland, Hayden, Jaelynn, Deegan, Henry, Axton, Adya, Ben, Anna, Luna, Gannon, RaeLynn, Kizer, Corbin, Axton, Brantley, Cashton, Lillian, and Oaklynn.

He is survived by his siblings: Sandy Collett of Dailey, Debbie Jenkins of Good Hope, Teresa Vaughn (John) of Good Hope, and Vanessa Bond (Michael) of Lost Creek, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his great-grandson, Brantley Callihan, and his sister, Sue Riffle.

Family and friends will be received at Davis Funeral Home, 124 Olen Thomas Drive, Route 98, Clarksburg, on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and again on Saturday, March 14, 2026, beginning at 9:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 am, with Pastor Destry Daniels officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be shared at www.davisfuneralhomewv.com. Davis Funeral Home is honored to serve the James family.

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