Born on June 7, 2007, to parents Harry Gerboth and Laura Simester; James was an old soul in a young man’s body - a thoughtful, gentle spirit with a deep love for history and the written word. A voracious reader, he could often be found absorbed in a book, lost in the lives and events of the past.
James was a beloved son, a devoted brother, and a quiet leader in his family’s everyday life. He also cherished family trips, embracing each new place with wide-eyed wonder and historical curiosity. Whether wandering through museums or standing where history happened, James found joy in learning.
Though his time here was brief, James leaves behind a legacy of kindness, intellect, and love. He touched the lives of those around him with his gentle spirit and thoughtful heart.
Those left to remember James include his parents, Harry Gerboth and Laura (Christopher Boley) Simester; siblings, Grace (Jason), Seth, Connor, and Margot; grandparents, Brian and Linda Gerboth, and Dennis and Luann Henderson; twenty cousins and many family members and friends.
James was preceded in death by his grandmother, Beverly Gerboth, his grandfather, Timothy Simester, and cousins, Caleb Kroeger and Rowan Aguilar.
A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Weerts Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. A private committal service will take place on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Davenport Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Online condolences and fond memories may be expressed at www.WeertsFH.com
