James G. Near, 87, of Shelby, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2025.  He was born August 17, 1938, in Shelby, Michigan, the son of George and Cecil (Meredith) Near.

James graduated from Shelby High School in 1956. He worked at Fowlers gas station before and after stints in the Army, then worked at Howmet until retirement. Jim enjoyed raising pigs during that time. He got into woodworking projects and made lots of wonderful things for the home and for family and friends. James was involved for many years with the ARC helping mentally challenged people through the years, giving support to them and different opportunities like picnics, dances, outings to West Michigan Whitecaps baseball games for them.

James was a long-time member of Rothbury Community Church, where he was able to go on mission trips to Kentucky and Tennessee with friends from the church.

James is survived by: his wife of 62 years, Donna (Usiak) Near; children, Deb of Texas, Dan of New Era, Lori (Mike) of Haslett, and Carl of Shelby; sister, Beatrice Wade of Alto; and many nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by: his parents, George and Cecil; brother, Richard; and sister, Barbara.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 am, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Rothbury Community Church, 2500 West Winston Road, Rothbury, Michigan 49452, with Reverend James Enns officiating.  Visitation will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm, Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Harris Funeral Home, 267 North Michigan Avenue, Shelby, Michigan, 49455, and on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 10 am until the time of services at Rothbury Community Church.  A luncheon will be provided. Interment will be in Mennonite Cemetery, 2052 South 96th Avenue, Shelby, Michigan 49455.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to: Rothbury Community Church, 2500 West Winton Road, Rothbury, Michigan 49452; The Ladder Community Center, 67 North Main Street, Shelby, Michigan 49455; or Elara Caring Hospice Care, 203 South State Street, Big Rapids, Michigan 49307.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

www.harrisfhome.com