Stephen Wayne James

Steve, as most people knew him, was a loving son and devoted father who prided himself on providing for his family. Steve was born in Corning, NY, to Bob and Martha James in September 1948 and graduated from high school in Huntsville, Alabama.

After a brief stint in college where he played on the drumline, Steve answered the call of service and joined the Navy. Most of his time was spent serving as a crewmember on the USS Hunley and the USS Ohio as a Missile Tech First Class. Steve retired from the Navy in 1993 after 20 years of service.

After retirement, not being one to ever rest, Steve worked for another 30 years; first at Naval Hospital Bremerton and then at SAFE Boats. Once, while working at Naval Hospital Bremerton, Steve was celebrated in a Kitsap Sun article for not having missed a day of work in over 14 years. In addition to his dedication to his work, Steve completed his Associate’s Degree, working nights and doing correspondence courses during the day.

Family was the most important thing to Steve, and he was forever providing support, whether it was financial, moral, or sharing their successes with everyone he met.

Steve’s most memorable traits were his quick wit and ever-present sense of humor, two attributes that brought joy to every room.

Steve is survived by his wife, Vian; his daughters, Stephenie and Suzanne (Michael); and his son, Robert (Hailey); he also leaves behind five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Steve is also survived by his sister Melissa and two brothers, David and Glenn; while they had drifted apart after the death of their parents, Steve still cared for them greatly.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held at 11:00 am on August 15 in Bremerton. Those who would like share photos and memories should email [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Fisher House Foundation (fisherhouse.org) in honor of Steve.