James W. Heilman Jr.

James William Bert Heilmann Jr., 86, of Ripley went to be with the lord on Thursday, November 4, 2021. He was born July 28, 1935 in Ripley a son of the late James William Bert Heilmann Sr and Eunice Bell Heilmann. In addition to his parents James was preceded in death by his brother Charles Ellsworth Heilmann and sister Mary Jo McCoy. He is survived by his wife of 56 years Brenda Raines Heilmann and sons James B. Heilmann (Debra), Charles E. Heilmann (Marlene), Dennis M. Heilmann (Susie), Michael P. Heilmann, Matthew K. Heilmann. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. He served in the Army Reserves, worked and retired from Kaiser Aluminum with 31 years of service. He was also a private gunsmith and photographer for the Jackson Herald and was the owner/operator of Heilmann Studios. James was also very involved with the Ripley Volunteer Fire Department #30, I.O.O.F Lodge #30 of Ripley, Gay Encampment #45, Canton Francis #18, American Legion Post 107 of Ripley and was a past Department Commander of WV Patriarch Militants. He was a 1953 Graduate of Ripley High School and a member of Epworth United Methodist Church. James William Bert Heilmann Jr was a loving husband, father and grandfather who loved his family and cherished all memories made with him. Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at Waybright Funeral Home, Ripley with Rev. Dr. Ford Price officiating. Visitation will be held from 12 p.m until the time of the service. Military Rites will be rendered by the Jackson County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Jim's memory to Kanawha Hospice.Online memories and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com