James Cleveland Fender, 57, of Bloomington, formerly of Odell passed away May 8 at his residence.
A Celebration of Life service will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Wesley United Methodist Church in Bloomington with Pastor Keith Ferguson . Cremation rites have been accorded. Kibler-Brady-Ruestman Memorial Home in Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.
Inurnment will be at a later date at Union Cemetery in Odell. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church.
James was born on Nov. 30, 1957, in Townsend, Georgia, a son of Lucius Cleveland and Etta Maxine Becker Fender.
Surviving are two sisters, Lynda Reader of Fort Myers, Florida, and Lori Fender of Odell; a brother, Rev. Michael (Rev. Elizabeth) Fender of Jacksonville; nieces and nephews, Christopher Reader of Fort Myers, Florida, and Micah, Jonah and Anna Fender, all of Jacksonville; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Preceding him in death are his parents; maternal grandparents, Ted and Myrtle Becker; paternal grandparents, Mack and Ava Lou Carter Fender; and a brother in-law, Troy Lee Reader.
“Big Bear” attended Wesley United Methodist Church. He loved old cars, had a vast knowledge of everything, loved children and enjoyed talking to and making new friends.
James was a devoted son, beloved brother and proud uncle. He will be deeply missed.
Online condolences and memories of James may be left for the family at kiblerbradyruestman.com.