James Louis Mayes, 74, of Hartford, formerly of Coloma died Saturday, December 8, 2018 at home with his wife of 54 years at his side.

Jim was born July 3, 1944 to Ted and Anna (Scales) Mayes in Malden, Mo. The family moved to Coloma, Mich. in 1958. He graduated from Coloma High School in 1963. Jim married the love of his life, Betty Finehout, November 20, 1964. Jim worked as a die cast machine operator until he was forced to retire in 2001 due to serious health issues. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and watching his Detroit sports teams (win or lose).

Jim's passion was his relationship with God and he felt honored to serve as a pastor for a small church in the early 1980's. He always enjoyed discussing the Bible. He was a gentle man known for his generous heart and warm hugs.

Those left behind to cherish Jim's memory include his wife, Betty (Finehout) Mayes, daughters: Theresa (Kevin) Doorn, Rebekah Mayes, Elizabeth (Keith) Doorn, Laura Mayes Bosco; son: James Dillon Mayes; sister: Joanna (Edward) Johnson; Brother-in-law: Richard Finehout; 19 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Ted Mayes, Anna Scales Mayes Wilson, stepfather Darrel Wilson; Mother in law, Shirley Finehout; Son in law, Lt. Col. Albert J. Bosco III; Sister in law & brother in law, Dorothy and Richard Pocevich; Nephew, Richard Lee Finehout III and an infant niece Patricia Johnson.

Visitation and Services will be held Friday, December 14, 2018 at Sister Lakes Community Church, 67119 M-152, Dowagiac, MI 49047. Visitation will be Noon to 2 pm with the Service at 2 pm.

The family is being helped by Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, MI 269-463-3811