James Edward Turnbo, Sr., 86, of Niles passed away at his home on Oct. 13, 2010 with his family surrounding him.

He was one of four children born to the late John and Mattie (Winchester) Turnbo on Oct. 28, 1923 in Bathspring, Tenn.

After meeting Opaleen Sims, she stole his heart and he knew she was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. On May 4, 1948 he married Opaleen at a ceremony in Arkansas.

James was always a hardworking man. He was employed by Tyler’s for more than 28 years until due to health concerns he retired. After retirement he was able to spend more time doing what he loved best — spending time with his family. He also found great joy in collecting guns and knives. He was a great man and a very dedicated husband. His children knew him to be wise and persistent; anything he set his mind to he was able to accomplish. All who knew him will miss his kindness, generosity and especially his sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tommy Turnbo.

He is survived by his wife, Opaleen; his four sons, Jim (Patsy) Turnbo, Allen (Karen) Turnbo, both of Niles, Timothy Turnbo of Florida and John Turnbo of Indiana; his five daughters, Brenda (Bruce) Monroe, Jennifer (Mike) LaPorte and Patricia, all of Niles, Gail (Jerry) Vankirk of Coldwater, Mich. and Carolyn Sanders. James also will be greatly missed by his 27 grandchildren;his 27 great-grandchildren; nine great-great grandchildren; and his sister, Nellie Morgan of South Bend, Ind.

Visitation will begin Monday, Oct. 18, 2010 from 11 a.m. until at 1 p.m. with the service at 1 p.m. at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, 61453 M-51, Niles.

Those wishing to make memorial donations may do so to Hospice at Home, 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085.

Condolences, pictures and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Services have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home and Mission Hills Memorial Chapel.