Linda Ann James
October 18, 1945 – May 5, 2026
Linda Ann James was born on October 18, 1945 and departed peacefully on May 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with leukemia. Born at the United States Naval Hospital at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Linda’s life was a testament to love, resilience and unwavering kindness. Linda transitioned from this life, surrounded by her beloved husband Bill and cherished daughters Jennifer and Karla, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth.
Linda was the oldest daughter of Phillip Leroy and Lucille Alberta Wareham, who instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and integrity. These values, which she held close to her heart, guided her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Bryan, whose memories she carried with her always.
She graduated from Pacific High School in San Bernardino, California in 1963, armed with a sharp mind and a determination to make a difference. Out of high school, she started her career in the car industry powered by a love for cars. She then embarked on a fulfilling career supporting the US Air Force in civil service, ending as an accountant with the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), dedicating 25 years of service until her retirement in 1999. Her professional journey did not end there; she pursued her entrepreneurial spirit by opening The Mail Stop, a small business where she connected with her community through her expertise in packing and shipping.
Linda’s life was beautifully enriched by her marriage to Bill James. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love and warmth, raising their daughters Jennifer Leigh (Kurt) Ramsbacher and Karla Ann (Greg) Shipper, who became the center of her world. Her love extended to her three grandchildren, Braedon, Grant and Reid, with whom she shared countless moments creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Linda was a woman of simple pleasures, finding joy in the swing of a golf club, playing canasta and mahjong with friends, a good book, card games and the challenge of a good crossword puzzle. She was a social butterfly, effortlessly turning strangers into friends with her genuine warmth, infectious smile, and a knack for starting up a conversation. Her home was a sanctuary of hospitality, a place where family and friends felt cherished and loved.
Linda was a proud member of the Worship Place in Sun City, Texas, where she found spiritual connection through prayer and fellowship.
Linda’s loving nature was a beacon of light to her surviving family: Her husband Bill, daughters Jennifer and Karla, her grandchildren, her sisters Phyllis, Christine and Marion, along with her nieces, nephews and countless dear friends who were touched by her grace.
To know Linda was to love her. Her legacy is one of unwavering love and boundless generosity. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to be part of her life. She leaves behind a world that is better for her having been in it and she will be deeply missed by all who know her.
As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman, let us celebrate a life lived with authenticity, passion, and a heart full of love. Rest in peace, dear Linda. Your memory will forever be a source of comfort and joy to those you leave behind.