Mr. James Wilson Gaither Sr., 88, of Battle Creek, MI, passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at Bronson Hospital after a brief illness. James was born November 4, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia, the son of the late Arby Gaither and Ella R. Woods. James completed grade school in Chattanooga, TN and attended Howard High School where he lettered in varsity basketball. He served in the U.S. Army(317th Unit) and returned to Battle Creek to work at the Veterans Administration Hospital. During his 28 plus year career with the V.A. he transferred with his family to Dayton, Ohio & Butler, Pennsylvania before returning back to the Battle Creek facility where he rose to become the Chief of Personnel. He attended and graduated from Western Michigan University. James was married for over 57 years to Marie Elizabeth (Stubbs) Gaither who predeceased him on July 3, 2008. James was beloved in the Battle Creek community and was active in a variety of civic & social organizations. James is survived by his son, James Wilson(Susan) Gaither, Jr. of Clifton, New Jersey, grandchildren Anika Marie, Chelsea Lynn and James Bryant Gaither(all of Clifton, NJ.) along with nieces Kimberly Guella & Deborah Brady, nephew Will Kelly along with several cousins residing around the country. Military service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery on December 15, 2017 at 11:00 am where both James & his beloved wife Marie will be memorialized. Memorial tributes may be made to Charity of one's choice. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service (269)965-5145
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” Psalms 23:1