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Jeff Guthrie
I met James when I went to work for Blue Bird in 82 . We became really good friends even outside of work. James was always willing to listen and help and always gave the best advice on what to do. He will be greatly missed . This world needs more men like him . RIP my friend
Aaron Jackson
Almost every time you hit a golf ball in the woods, which was like half the time, you would say to me, "Even a blind squirrel can find a nut". I'm thinking, what does that even mean? How many blind squirrels have you met? I'm the one finding your ball. Literally every time. Funny how in life it's those little things or sayings that we miss the most about a person. My best days are without a doubt watching college football with you screaming at the TV while mom was upstairs crotatting. One of the things I loved most about you was just how apple-pie American you were. One of the things I'll miss the most is your ability to remember the most random fact about a football player from 50 years ago. I'll pick up the torch watching Bama. As far as the Falcons go, Sam has you covered. You were not just a friend. You were my dad. (If you're reading this and you want to honor James...Simply eat some strawberry ice cream.)
Don Bradfield
Was James Grantham a m anager at Canadian Bluebird?
Linda Nipper Schexnayder
Patricia Allrid (Purchasing Pat)
I worked with James for many years. He was always a joy to work with. He was a true friend and coworker. So sorry to hear of his passing.
Verna Borders
A very special good friend. Sorry for your loss!!!
Lucene Branam
Oh what a sweet fun loving man! He was a dear friend to all who knew him. RIP my friend.
Matthew Grantham
I remember Dad teaching me to drive. Had me run the right tires off the road. He definitely prepared me for life. I love you.
Matthew Grantham
Nan Grantham Hendon
Well put Wendy the love of his life. Thank you and Sam for being there for Bubba. When I seen bubba and I said open your pretty brown eyes and he did just that. He seem to be comfortable. Being with you and some of the family. I can see James meeting the rest of family in Heaven. Oh the rejoicing they are having.
Nan Grantham
Well put Wendy the love of his life. Thank you and Sam being there by his side. James loved everyone ,and show it too. He sure is going to missed forever in my heart. Love all of
Clara
He was my first friend and boss , the sweetest man in my life
Heather, Robert, RJ, Darin, & Trevor
We will all miss Uncle James. He was such a loving and generous man. We are so blessed to have him as a part of our family. We are sending our prayers for Wendy and the boys.
Lester Ledon Green SR.
My friend will surely be missed! The picture is how I remember him!!
Mike McCollum
James was a wonderful friend & mentor. We had some great times over the past 40 years & some enlightening conversations. I'll miss my friend.
James Holman Grantham
2025-10-23
It is with deep sadness and profound love that the family of James Holman Grantham, 83, announces his passing on October 23, 2025, in Fernandina Beach, Florida.
James was born on December 3, 1941, in Ariton, Alabama, to the late James Clyde Grantham and Johnnie Merle Tidwell Grantham.
He grew up in Bibb City, Georgia, and graduated from Jordan High School in 1960. Shortly thereafter, James enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a machine mechanic in San Diego, California. His time in the service instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and opportunity, allowing him to attend college and ultimately launch a long and successful career as a Systems Analyst with Blue Bird Bus Corporation in Fort Valley, Georgia. By the time of his retirement, he had risen to the position of Vice President of Engineering and Manufacturing, a role that reflected both his intelligence and his unwavering dedication.
Upon retiring, James fulfilled his dream of living by the water. He found his slice of paradise in Destin, Florida, where his days were filled with sunshine, books, crossword puzzles, and peaceful walks along the beach. It was there that he met the love of his life, Wendy Lou, and the two were married in 2012 during a beautiful beachside ceremony — a day they forever called their “best day ever.”
James was an avid golfer and cherished the friendships he built on the fairway. He was also a devoted fan of Alabama football and the Atlanta Falcons — one team that he was able to celebrate many national championships with and one that tested his loyalty at times, but both were special to him.
Though James achieved much throughout his life, his greatest joy came from his family — especially his beloved wife and his five sons. He led with quiet strength, grace, and gentleness, and his love for them was steadfast and fierce. His laughter, wisdom, and the lessons he shared will continue to guide them always.
Along with his parents, James was preceded in death by his brothers Jimmy Grantham and Jerry Grantham.
He is lovingly survived by his wife Wendy Lou Grantham; sons James Jr. (Bonnie), Matthew (Mari), Aaron, Sam, and Will; grandsons Evan and Jude; siblings Rocky (Nancy), Nan (Wayne), and Johnny; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.
A private family gathering will be held to celebrate James’s life and honor his memory.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in James’s memory to Northeast Florida Community Hospice.
We will miss you deeply, Papa Bear.
“Don’t take any wooden nickels.”
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