James Vorhis, Jr.

Mr. James Vorhis Jr., son of the late James Vorhis Sr. and Willa Mae Vorhis was born October 21, 1930 in Indianapolis, Indiana. James was a brother to Theodore “Buddy” Vorhis and three sisters, Ola Mae Vorhis, Marie Stringfellow and Mary Davis. He passed away on Saturday, November 26, 2016. James received his formal education via the Indianapolis Public School System, attending Crispus Attucks High School. At an early age in life James accepted Christ and was baptized.

As a young man, he worked as a butcher and later joined the United States Army in 1954. He proudly served his country during the Korean War until he was honorably discharged in 1956. His services was highlighted in the Veteran’s Project which is currently housed in the Library of Congress in Washington D.C.

He loved watching old westerns and action movies on VHS tape and loved to decorate his home with historical pieces from Native American and African cultures. On special occasions James loved to get dressed up and he was sharp at all times. He was admired for his unique style and flair for fashion. He loved shopping for clothing at L.S. Ayres and the Goodwill Store, not only for himself but other loved ones that he felt could benefit from his keen fashion sense.

James was a very thoughtful man of few words. He was very independent and showed his love for his family by taking pride in his black heritage and his health. He made sure that family came first and would encourage the family to experience new and fun adventures together. Each year he would make sure the family gathered for the holidays and tried his best to attend everyone’s birthday celebrations. He thought of others before himself, never interfered in other’s business, and made sure to take care of his own. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

James was a loving father to all of his children and served as a strong father figure and loyal friend to many. During his life he raised seven children, two who have preceded him in death, Phyllis Simpson, Rodney Vorhis. He leaves to cherish his memory two sisters, Marie Stringfellow and Mary Davis; five children, Michael Vorhis, Denita (Eric) Seals, Julaun Lewis, Joy Vorhis and Danyelle (Quinton) Gray. Of his seven children, he also leaves behind a great legacy of nine grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.