James Roy King, born in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer. He was a dedicated father, a proud United States Marine, and a skilled craftsman who lived his life with strength, grit, and a deep love for his family.

A true patriot, James served his country with distinction, completing two honorable tours of duty during the Vietnam War. While stationed at Camp Lejeune, he faced the environmental hazards that would later cause his illness, but he carried his Marine spirit with him through every trial, fighting hard until the very end.

Upon returning home to civilian life, James mastered the art of carpentry. He was a talented carpenter by trade, known for his strong hands and meticulous attention to detail. In a unique chapter of his life during the early 1990s, his skills led him to work closely with the legendary entertainer Connie Francis, assisting with her signature cosmetics and skincare line.

James is now reunited in heaven with his parents, Andrew Jackson King (d. 1979) and Ruth Raymer King (d. 2019); his beloved second wife and the mother of his younger children, Marilyn Niel Meyers King (d. 2021); and his beloved eldest son, Daniel Alexander King Sr., who tragically passed away on April 15, 2026.

His legacy of strength lives on through his surviving children, grandchildren, and extended family:

• His son, Keith Butler, and his wife Jennifer, along with their daughter Mackenzie of Tampa, Florida.
• His devoted daughter, Ashley Marie King Bumgardner, and her husband James of Dade City, Florida. Through James, he leaves behind two loved step-grandchildren, Alan Lee Bumgardner of Dade City, Florida, and Roy Bumgardner of Brooksville, Florida.
• His son, Christopher Lee King of San Antonio, Texas.
• His son, Matthew James King of Missouri, along with his five cherished grandchildren: Anthony, Raven, Star, Jasper, and Matthew King Jr.
• He is also survived by his grandson, Daniel A. King Jr. of Kansas.

A high-honor graveside service with full Marine Corps Military Honors will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, where James will be laid to rest among his fellow heroes on December 10, 2026.

"Semper Fi, Marine. Your watch is ended. Rest in peace."