James Russell Necessary

James Russell “JR” Necessary, 92, of Yorktown, passed away on Tuesday, March 23, 2021, at his home. He was born in Boston, Indiana, on Monday, October 1, 1928, to Roy and Susie (Freeman) Necessary. He married Barbara and they shared thirty-seven years together. JR received degrees from Indiana University and Ball State University. During his twenty years at Ball State University, he taught Management, Personnel, Productions and Computer Courses. He was known as “JR” at Ball State University, and had twenty-eight research papers accepted for publication. He also made many presentations at national conferences relative to his research. His computer and management textbooks, The Necessary Steps to Basic and Industrial Supervision, were published in 1982 and 1986 respectively. His book, Teachers Stress and Success, was published in 1996. JR was Professor of the Year at Ball State University in 1982. JR was a remarkable man in every sense of the word. He was the founder of Great Potential Achievers, a non-for-profit organization providing educational services for schools and businesses. His concern for others led him to develop and implement self-esteem building programs to both youth and adults. He believed that a positive attitude is the major requirement for having a successful life. In 2008, he published How to Be a Happy You, 629 Positive Ideas to Ensure Happiness. JR loved his family and we very much loved him. He will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts. JR is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; sons, Michael (Pam) Necessary and Stephen Necessary; daughter, Deena Huddleston; step-son, David (Shari) Dickerson; grandchildren, John (Savannah) Necessary, Nicole (Jonas) Young, Joe (Shannon) Necessary,; step-granddaughters, Sara (Taylor) Mock, and Samantha Dickerson; four great-grandchildren; one step-great-grandchild; and sister, Carol Wetzel. He was preceded in death by a son, Scott Necessary; his parents; and five siblings. Family and friends may call on Monday, March 29, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, 4600 West Kilgore Avenue, Muncie, Indiana 47304. Services will be Monday, March 29, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at Elm Ridge Funeral Home. Rusty Clements will officiate. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a mask is required as well as social distancing. Memorial contributions may be given to the Youth Opportunity Center, 3700 West Kilgore Avenue, Muncie, Indiana 47304. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com for the Necessary family.