Barbara Ann James

Born on February 14, 1937, in White Plains, New York; to George Joseph and Norma Francis (Walter) Ackerman, “Babs” graduated from high school in White Plains. Upon graduation, she attended University of Connecticut, graduating as a registered nurse.

Barbara married William N. James in White Plains on January 17, 1959. The couple moved to Sault St. Marie, Michigan, where Bill was stationed. Barbara and Bill became the parents to four daughters, Laurie Ann James, Deborah Lee James, Julie Lynn Davis, and Melinda Jo Askin.

The family lived in Sault St. Marie, Michigan, Duluth, Minnesota, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, West Berlin, Frankfurt, and Heidelberg, Germany, Leavenworth, Kansas, and Indianapolis, Indiana. Upon retirement, the family settled in Spring, Texas.

Barbara was a loving mother to her daughters. She was thrilled to become a grandmother. She is survived by Samantha Jo Davis, Jenna Marie Davis, Benjamin Boyd Davis, and Elizabeth Frances Askin. Barbara grew up next to a farm and enjoyed all the animals. Throughout her life she had several dogs, cats, and horses. She was especially fond of the dachshunds she had through the years.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, her infant sister, Lynn Patricia, her husband, William N. James, and her son-in-law, Steve Davis.

Barbara passed away on November 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving daughters at the age of 88. She was our guiding light, our north star. Until we meet again. The family would like to thank Tomie, Tori, and Sarah, from Bluebonnet Hospice, for their warmth, kindness and support.