James Charles Little

Jim was born on March 29, 1946, in Upland, California, to parents Betty and James. He spent his childhood in Chino, California, before moving to Upland at the age of thirteen. He attended Upland High School and later graduated from Life Bible College. Jim built a life marked by steady devotion to his faith and his family. He was a family man above all else—the rock and anchor across generations—and he carried that role with quiet strength, deep love, and enduring pride in those he held closest.

For more than 27 years, Jim and Loretta worked side by side owning and operating their business, Sweet Mercantile Co., a cake and candy supply shop. His skill and care were evident in all he did, and those who knew Jim also knew him as the family cook and an especially talented candymaker whose gifts were shared generously. He spent many years teaching chocolate candy-making and gum paste flower classes, sharing his knowledge and love of the craft with others. He was especially known for the beautiful gum paste flower bouquets he created to adorn cakes.

Jim’s life was enriched by simple, faithful pleasures: listening to 1960s and gospel music, enjoying peanut butter treats, gardening, woodworking, and cooking. He loved building birdhouses, tending to his vegetable garden, camping lakeside in the mountains, and taking trips to Cambria, California. He took great joy in sharing the zucchini and tomatoes he grew with friends, family, and neighbors, always making sure those he loved were well fed.

He served as a board member of the California Cake Club and remained an active member for many years, offering his time and steady commitment to a community shaped by shared craft and fellowship.

Jim met his wife, Loretta, on the first day of first grade at El Rancho Elementary School in Chino, California—a beginning that grew into a lifelong bond and a family he treasured above all. Jim and Loretta celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last summer. Even in ordinary moments, his warmth showed through, often accompanied by humor and a well-timed joke that brought comfort and lightness to those around him.

In his passing, Jim is reunited with his mother, Betty Lorraine Little; his father, James Curtis Little; his youngest son, Paul Bradley Little; and his sister, Dorothy Sanders.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Loretta Little; his children, David Little and Darlene Nguyen; his son-in-law, Khoi Nguyen; his grandchildren, Stephanie Nguyen, Shawn Nguyen, Ryan Nguyen, Ashley Little, Emily Little, and Aubrey Little; and his great-grandchildren, Jacob, Tyler, and Mason.

His legacy of faith, love, and quiet strength will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.