James L. Melosh

Jim was born in Wayne, Michigan, on October 7, 1944. A proud Bentley High School graduate (Class of ’63) and even prouder Michigan State grad. He was a natural-born teacher and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his students, be it in the classroom or on the field. Jim enjoyed the occasional college or pro game, but his heart was with High School sports. He loved coaching and attending any High School sport and was equally effusive for both boys and girls.

Jim met the love of his life, Doris Buchfinck (Doris was also a Bentley grad & member of the Alumni Association), and on June 5, 1969, they were married. Though Jim & Doris were not blessed with children, they certainly spread their love, support, and mentorship amongst a number of Jim’s students, present or past. In addition to building their own period-correct Colonial home on 2 acres in Salem Twp., Jim & Doris stayed busy with traveling, bike tours, and visiting places most of us only dream of after retirement.

Sadly, in 2003, Doris passed, and Jim pushed on with a variety of cross-country bike groups and also a cross-country scooter club. He traveled the country on these trips and always returned with so many stories!

In 2005, Jim met another love, Sue Billington. Jim and Sue bonded over the shared loss of a spouse (Sue’s husband passed in 2002), and together they embarked on a new life together on February 25, 2006. With Sue, Jim inherited 3 adult children, 3 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. While Sue wasn’t a big traveler, Jim did show her some amazing sights (Hawaiian honeymoon, European River Cruise from London to St. Petersburg), and she even got her passport!

Unfortunately, in 2021, Jim was diagnosed with dementia, and it was necessary for him to receive memory care at Arden Courts. As the dementia consumed him, his body gave out, and he passed on February 21st. Jim is survived by his wife, Georgia Sue Melosh, and his one remaining brother, Ray Melosh. Jim is also survived by his best friend George Calder, many Melosh nieces & nephews, as well as Sue’s children, Mark Billington (Debbie) of Livonia, Deborah Rattai (Rick) of Howell, 3 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, February 28, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions in memory of Jim are appreciated to the Clarenceville High School Sports Program, Greenmead Livonia, or to a charity of your choice.