James Alton Hobbs

March 22, 1935 - July 22, 2018

James Alton Hobbs, age 83 of Clare, Michigan passed away Sunday, July 22, 2018 at the North Woods Nursing Center. James was born on March 22, 1935 in Iuka, Mississippi, the son of Thomas J. and Effie A. (Wadkins) Hobbs. He married Rheta Joanne Williams on June 5, 1958 in Corinth, Mississippi. Together, they lived in Mississippi until November 1973 when they moved to Eldorado, Illinois. James moved to Michigan in 2004 to be with his daughter and family. He attended Gospel Assembly Church and Clare Church of the Nazarene, he so enjoyed worshiping and singing. Fondest memories of James will always include him humming and singing throughout the day or walking with his grandsons on his shoulders. James was an avid reader of many subjects and read the bible through many times. He passed his passion of reading on to his daughter and grandson, Dustin. His eyes would light up and he would have the biggest smile for his family. James was a very generous and loving person, who helped anyone in need. He simply was a good Christian man with a beautiful soul. James is survived by his daughter Anne-Marie (Mitch) Canel of Farwell, MI., two grandsons Brandon (Amanda) Huddleston of Clare, MI. and Dustin Ranger of Mt. Pleasant, MI., three great grandchildren Aubrey, Braden, and Brynlee Huddleston, sisters Lily Barnes of Corinth, MS., Ruby Tigner of Iuka, MS., Dimple (Tom) Kauffman of Paris, IL., Teresa Roberts of Corinth, MS., brother Talmadge (Emily) Hobbs of Iuka, MS., and sister-in-law Sheila Williams of Mansfield, OH. James was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas J. and Effie A. Hobbs, brother Everett Hobbs, sister Ailen Sanderson, nephews Timmy Barnes, Jeff Hobbs, Greg and Michael Ronzheimer. A memorial service in honor of James will take place on Monday, July 30, 2018 at the Clare Chapel of the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home at 6:00 P.M. with Pastor Jim Young officiating. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Monday from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. A celebration of James’ life will take place in Iuka, MS. at a later date. Memorial contributions in honor of James are recommended to the Clare Church of the Nazarene or to the Gospel Assembly Church of Eldorado, IL. Those unable to attend may share condolences at www.stephenson-wyman.com