James Porter Bedwell

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the passing of James Porter Bedwell, who departed this world on July 1, 2026, at the age of 91.  James took his final breath peacefully at home in the comforting presence of his beloved family.  James was the cherished son of the late Ray Ira Bedwell and Afton Avanell (Cadwell) Bedwell, born in Midland, Indiana on May 9, 1935.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Vincent Bedwell; his granddaughter, Judith Rachelle French; and his siblings, Jack, Gordon and Robert Bedwell, Ramona Young and Carolyn Phillips.  Despite the loss that life inevitably brings, James's spirit was always buoyed by the joy and pride he found in his family.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 67 years, Joyce Faye (Blakeley) Bedwell, with whom he built a loving home and raised two wonderful sons.  Their enduring partnership was a testament to love and resilience.  James is also survived by his son, John (Vickie) Bedwell; grandsons, Clay and Jonah Bedwell; and great-granddaughter, Kaori K. Smith; alongside many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

In his younger years, James proudly served his nation in the Army Reserves from 1957 - 1958.  He later dedicated 18 years of his professional life to Austin Powder before embracing he rugged life of a coal miner until his retirement.  His industrious spirit and dedication were admired by all who knew him. 

James was a man of nature, an "outdoorsman elite" who found solace and adventure in the great outdoors.  Whether it was hunting, fishing, or trapping, he was at home under the vast skies and among the whispering trees.  Summers found him with a fishing pole in hand, while winters saw him with a basket of traps slung over his back.  In his later years, he took to catching catfish by hand, a testament to his adventurous spirit.  His love of nature was matched only by the joy he found in sharing these experiences with younger family members, especially his nephews, whom he often took hunting and fishing.

A man of warmth and generosity, James always made time for his family, imparting wisdom and love with every interaction.  His legacy is one of devotion, resilience, and an unyielding appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

The Bedwell family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Elaine Purce for her exceptional care and compassion during the last year of James's life.  Her dedication brought comfort and peace to his final days.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in James's memory to the American Diabetes Association, a cause close to his heart.

James Porter Bedwell will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.  May his soul rest in peace, cradled by the nature he cherished and surrounded by the love of his family.

Service will be held Tuesday at 11:00am at Bandy Funeral Home in Nortonville with Bro. Larry Phaup officiating.  Burial to follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in White Plains.  Visitation will be held Monday from 5:00pm - 7:00pm and Tuesday from 10:00am - 11:00am at the funeral home.  Pallbearers will be Terry and Mark Bedwell, Jeff Phillips, Greg Young, Jason Abbott and Darrel Hatfield.

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