James was a 1963 graduate of Fort Smith High School, worked in construction then served two years in the Army during the Vietnam War. He attended Westark College for two years and retired from Whirlpool. He was of the Lutheran faith.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia, of the home; two sons, James Christopher Spain and his wife Dianna, of Van Buren and Matthew David Spain of Fort Smith; a brother, Dale Spain of Fort Smith, along with three grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
