James is survived by his wife of 60 years., Barbara Elaine Cherry; his son James L. Cherry; his sister Judith Curfman.
James was a lifelong resident of Norfolk, Virginia. He was an avid Drag Car racing participant across the east coast and Golf enthusiast. James had many family pets whom he loved.
He was the parts manager at Green Gifford Chrysler Plymouth for 46 years, from which he retired.