James Henry Anderson

James Henry Anderson, age 98 years, a resident of Vienna, Illinois, passed away Saturday evening, October 19, 2024, at 11:22 P.M. at Baptist Healthcare in Paducah, Kentucky. James Henry was born March 3, 1926 in Massac County Illinois. He was united in marriage to Sandra Sue Gray. She survives. In addition to his wife, James Henry is survived by: his children – Ronald Anderson of Johnston City, Illinois, Cherylon (Greg) Bouras of Ozark, Illinois, and Melissa Anderson of Vienna, Illinois; several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; and his beloved beagle service dog, Brownie. James Henry was preceded in death by his mother – Letha Schmidt; his step-father – Harry Schmidt; a son – James M. “Mike” Anderson; and a sister – Lucille Johnson. James Henry was a U.S. Army veteran. He served from 1945-1947 during the World War II era. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Private First Class. James Henry was a former member of the American Legion Post in Metropolis. He participated in a Southern Illinois Honor Flight and enjoyed seeing the military memorials in Washington D.C. James Henry was a former employee of Missouri Portland Cement, where he worked in numerous capacities including transportation and welding. He later worked in the commercial transportation industry and transferred explosives. James Henry’s passion, however, was farming. He was a former member of the Masonic fraternity and was a Shriner. James Henry enjoyed sitting outside and visiting with family and friends. He never met a stranger and was loved by all who knew him. In his youth, James Henry enjoyed horseback riding. During his military service, he became fascinated with aviation and maintained a private pilot’s license for many years. Melissa shared what a blessing it had been for her to provide care to her parents so that they could remain in the comfort of their home. James Henry was a member of the Faith Harvest Assembly in Vienna. A graveside service was held Monday, October 21, 2024, at 2 P.M. at the Anderson Cemetery in the Boaz Community in Massac County Illinois. Pastor Richard Swiney officiated. Military rites were accorded by the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post # 5222 and the Illinois National Guard Burial Honors Detail. Memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 4400 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.

James Henry Anderson

March 3, 1926 - October 19, 2024