Robert Morris “Bob” James, 88, of Columbus, passed away on Thursday, Oct, 18, 2018, at Tryon Estates in Columbus, North Carolina.

Born in Xenia, Ohio, Bob was the son of the late Joshua (Byford) and Millie McCoy James. 

He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. 

In 1955, he graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy.

In May of 1956, Bob married the love of his life, Donna Barker, and together they raised two children while living in Ohio. 

Bob worked for 35 years as a pharmacist in Ohio before his retirement.

In 1990, Bob and Donna moved to Tryon, North Carolina. They became members of Tryon Presbyterian Church in Tryon, where he previously served as an elder of the church and was active in the choir. 

Bob was very dedicated to the local community, and served in many capacities, including treasurer of the St. Luke’s Hospital Auxiliary board for three years and a former board member for Thermal Belt Outreach Ministries.

Bob was preceded in death by his son, Thomas E. James.

Surviving is his wife of 62 years, Donna Barker James; a daughter, Betsy J. Schaaf of Charlotte, North Carolina; a daughter-in-law, Bonnie James of Troy, Ohio; and four grandchildren, Nicklaus L. James, Lauren M. Schaaf, David R. Schaaf and Nicholas A. James. Also surviving are many cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018, in the dining hall at Tryon Estates in Columbus, with Dr. Charles Drawdy officiating.

Memorials may be made to Tryon Presbyterian Church, 430 Harmon Field Road, Tryon, NC 28782.

An online guest register is available at mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Tryon