Cecil "Mutt" E. James, most popularly known as Papa, born on September 11, 1948 passed away peacefully on the morning of March 25, 2020. He is survived by his wife, Donna (Steele) James; son, D. Baxter James; daughter, Shelby Guyton; mother, Doris James; brother, William James, Jr.; sister, Susan Layton; two grandchildren, McKenzie and Micah Wilson and many cousins, nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by his father, William James, Sr.
Cecil was drafted into the Army on May 20, 1968 after graduating from Lower Richland High School. Following his basic training, he was stationed in Germany and eventually transferred to Vietnam. He received an Honorable discharge April 15, 1970. Cecil was presented the Distinguished Flying Cross by the President of the United States of America for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on September 5, 1969 while serving as an aerial observer with the Air Calvary Regiment in the Republic of Vietnam. In addition, Cecil received the following awards: Purple Heart, Air Medal with letter V device with numeral 3, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 bronze service stars, Expert Badge with Rifle Bar, Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Palm Unit Citation Badge. Thank You for Your Service.
After his military discharge, Cecil started his career with Square D/Schneider Electric where he was a machinist. He retired after 35 years of service and pursued his career with ECM where he worked for seven years. Then he retired to enjoy traveling, fishing/boating, pleasure golf cart riding (not on golf courses) and life in general with his wife, grandchildren, family and friends.
He was a great man. He was a very fun, outgoing and loving husband, son, father, Papa, brother, uncle, cousin and friend who will be greatly missed.
Elmwood Funeral Home and Cremation Service will be handling the arrangements. He will be cremated and laid to rest at Fort Jackson National Cemetery with military honors. This memorial will be announced at a later date.
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