James J. Sebright, 83, died Tuesday, April 22, at his home in Plainwell.
Prior to his passing, Vicki leaned in and whispered, “Jim, hold a spot for me.” A precious moment and testament of their love for one another. While in her grief, Vicki did her best to incorporate Jim’s vibrant sense of humor.
Jim was born on Jan. 22, 1942, in Plainwell, the son of Howard and Marion Sebright. He was raised in Wayland.
Jim was an outdoorsman at heart. In his childhood, Jim enjoyed fishing, baseball, and running around town with his brothers and good buddy, Wayne, in what they called, “the jungle,” by the bowling alley.
On Oct. 21, 1967, James married Vicki Byron of Gobles. Jim and Vicki made their first home on Duck Lake, later moving to Allegan, where they resided for forty seven years before moving to Plainwell.
Jim was a graduate of Wayland Union High School and Western Michigan University. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army. After his years of service, Jim began his career at Rockwell International working for almost 25 years as a production scheduler, while working part time at Gordon Funeral Residence.
During this time, Jim returned to complete his bachelor’s degree in business administration at Western. Jim ended his career working for K-Line Industries in Holland.
Jim was asked to be the best man in his son’s wedding. He worked side by side with his son (and daughter in law) in lawn care and renovating homes. Jim loved attending each of his granddaughter’s sporting events and was a proud grandpa.
Jim’s sense of humor brought laughter to so many. He often missed (or chose to ignore) the cues when Vicki had heard enough. Jim had an incredibly strong work ethic and will always be known for his willingness to help family, and friends alike. Jim’s woodworking skills brought a beautiful workmanship to their family home. Jim took great pride in caring for his vegetable garden and Vicki’s flower beds.
Jim left us with a special expression of love for his brother in laws, as they will forever have an irreplaceable bond. As Jim navigated the last years of his life with dementia, he was comforted by the selfless efforts of Vicki and Lisa’s constant care, allowing him to remain in his home until his passing. He loved relaxing with his grand-dogs Reese and Clementine; they provided a sense of calming for him.
Surviving are his wife, Vicki, his daughter, Lisa, his son and daughter in law, Brad (Susie) Sebright, three beautiful granddaughters, Samantha, Olivia and Ellie, of whom he thought the world of. Jim was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Howard and Marion, and his two brothers, Barry and Curt, as well as, his father and mother in law, Edwin and Evelyn Byron.
Cremation has taken place. The family will hold a private interment at Lindsley Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at from 4 to 7:30 p.m at the Hartman Banquet Center in Allegan Monday, May 5.
Memorials can be made to Centrica Care Navigators, 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo.
