A memorial service will be at 4 p.m. Saturday at Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Minonk, with the Rev. Richard Olson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.

James was born Aug. 23, 1921, at Maroa, son of Delmas and Alma Harris Sample. He married Lorna Meils on Feb. 19, 1942, Minonk. She passed away June 16, 1954. He later married Betty Strang on March 11, 1955, in Bloomington. She survives.

Other survivors include one son, Jimmie Sample, Marion Ind.; two daughters, Sally (Joe) Fox, Longwood, Fla, Kristy (Rod) Roof, Normal; three grandchildren, Brett Fox, Staci Stemley and Derek Sample; one great-grandchild, Sydney Stemley.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

James served his country in the U.S. Air Force in World War II, where he was a fighter pilot instructor.

He owned and operated the Minonk Sanitary Bakery for many years. He then worked as a Standard Oil distributor for more than 20 years.

James attended Illinois Wesleyan University and was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He also was a member of Englewood Country Club and Tall Oaks Country Club, where he served on the board for many years, and was a member of the Elks Lodge. He was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ and he attended the Heartland Community Church.

James loved to golf, fish and dance whenever he had the chance. He was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be sent to his family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.