James Anthony Meredith's Obituary
On Thursday, January 12th, 2023, at age 89, James Anthony Meredith, loving husband, father, and grandfather left this world. James was born on June 13th, 1933, in Nebraska City, Nebraska to William and Clara Meredith; he was the youngest of 15 children. Coming from a tough childhood, he left the farm in Nebraska with not a dime to his name, joined the Army Reserves & U.S. Air Force, and moved forward in his life with drive and determination.
In 1955 James was married to Wanda Joyce Christian. Together they had three sons: James II (Jimmy), Allen, and Michael. While working and raising a family, he attended college to advance his skills and further his career. The family lived in various states including Florida, Washington, and Colorado before settling in Vista, California. While in California, his family continued to grow as James welcomed many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
James met Josephine Meredith in 2008 and enjoyed twelve beautiful years of marriage; they had a playful relationship and shared much love and laughter. Josephine brought a special tenderness to James and will forever be integrated into his surviving family, affectionately referred to as Mama Jo or Gramma Jo. As recounted by Josephine, James found peace while visiting the gravesite of his late wife, Wanda. He would take time cleaning her headstone, providing fresh flowers, and talking with her. Josephine stated that on their first visit there together, James tenderly introduced her to his beloved wife Wanda.
James lived a long, full life and made a priority of weaving love and laughter throughout his many accomplishments. He built several successful businesses while enjoying life, continuing to work well into his eighties. James was enthusiastic about any excuse to gather; he was an entertainer and loved to host big parties and family reunions. Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas were joyful events along with bonfires just for the heck of it. His grandchildren fondly remember many adventures on the hill, at the home James built by hand with the help of his three boys.
Through his example and companionship, James taught his family how to embrace life to the fullest while instilling invaluable life lessons. He had an incredible work ethic driven by his strong desire to always care for his family and provide security. James could be heard saying that family meant more to him than anything in the world. He frequently spoke of his children and grandchildren, recanting memories, telling stories, and declaring his endless pride and joy of his posterity.
James was a man of service and was innately nurturing. During his life, he strived daily to meet the needs of others and found joy in making sure those around him were always taken care of. He was always ready to learn, eager to help, and truly enjoyed connecting with people.
James loved to be outdoors and found serenity in nature. He enjoyed tending to his trees, taking in ocean views, fishing in his very own backyard pond, and traveling the world. He made a hobby later in life of raising Monarch butterflies and found great joy in seeing them flourish.
James had a profound impact on many. He was a strong Patriarch of the Meredith family and established an incredible family with unbreakable bonds, constant laughter, and endless love. The world has been tremendously blessed by this beautiful man during his 89.5 years of vibrant life.
James was remarkably healthy most of his life, jet-setting to Europe, Asia, and Hawaii in his mid to late eighties. His last year proved most difficult with his final two months filled with health issues and excruciating pain. During this time, his loving wife Josephine, and sons Allen and Jimmy, were constantly by his side. In his final days, James was surrounded by family who provided him with peace, comfort, and love as his spirit prepared to leave this earth. James’ family had been reassuring him daily that it was okay to rest; although no one wanted to let him go, his family is comforted knowing he is no longer suffering.
James was preceded in death by his parents William and Clara Meredith; his fourteen siblings; and his former wife, the mother of his children, Wanda Meredith. James is survived by his loving wife Josephine; his sons Jimmy, Allen, and Michael; his nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren (who will always lovingly refer to him as Grampy).
James was greatly loved and appreciated and will be deeply missed, especially his infectious smile and wonderful laugh. His family would like to imagine him smiling down from heaven and watching over them. The Meredith family will always remember James fondly, with great respect and honor, as they speak of him often and pass on his legacy.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?