James David Almond

Chief Petty Officer James D. Almond July 31, 1951 – December 4, 2024 Chief Petty Officer James D. Almond, a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and dedicated patriot, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024, surrounded by his family and friends. James served his country with distinction, beginning his military career in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1972, and later joining the U.S. Navy in 1976, where he served until his retirement in 1996. During his service, James received numerous awards and commendations, reflecting his unwavering dedication to duty. A proud Vietnam veteran, he traveled the world in service to his country, always ready to protect the nation he deeply loved. When asked if he would do it all again, his answer was always a resolute "yes." James is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Cheryl (Hildenbrand) Almond; his children, Jeremy (Tracey) Almond, Marci (Ron) Densmore, and Tricia (Glen) Edwards; and his siblings, Betty (Tom) Thomas, Margaret (Roger) Gaddy, George Deaton and sister-in-law Jamie Hildenbrand. He was a cherished grandfather to Jordan, Spencer, and Trinity Almond; Bryant Williams; Kailee Johnson; Mackenzie (Ben) Dake; Hannah (Caleb) Wing; and Emily and Olivia Edwards. He also leaves behind four great-grandchildren—Abigail, Valerie, Elijah, and Emily Johnson—as well as numerous nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by his father, James Almond, and his mother, Maggie McIntire. A man of profound faith, James lived a life marked by kindness and a servant’s heart. As a member of Rivers Edge Church, he led by example, serving as the building team leader in the tech ministry and volunteering wherever he was needed. His faith was further enriched by a life-changing mission trip to Guatemala, where he served at an orphanage and shared the love of Christ. He found solace and connection in long walks, which he described as moments for prayer and communion with God, and he cherished playing and listening to music, often with his guitar in hand. James took immense pride in his naval career and was the embodiment of a true patriot. Beyond his service, he will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his steadfast belief in Jesus Christ, and his profound love for his family, friends, and community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 11:00 Am at Grand Ledge Baptist Church, 1120 W. Willow Road, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837. Visitation will be at the church Tuesday from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Delta Center Cemetery, and a luncheon at the church will follow after that. Memorial contributions may be given to the Wounded Warrior Project, 600 River Avenue, Suite 400, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania 15212 (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=10043&_gl=1*1h7af1r*_gcl_au*OTk0MzkzNTAyLjE3MzM0MzU2MDY.*_ga*NzQ1NDQ1MjY1LjE3MzM0MzU2MDY.*_ga_R4MM40GQC5*MTczMzQzNTYwNi4xLjAuMTczMzQzNTYwNi42MC4wLjk4NTUyOTg.) or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306 (https://dogood.t2t.org/give/320847/?_gl=1*1tvxelj*_gcl_au*MTkwNDE4NjEyOC4xNzMwOTk4NzMz*_ga*MTQzNzg3NDQxLjE3MzA5OTg3MzM.*_ga_KKJBEGGEYM*MTczMzQzNTYxOC4zLjAuMTczMzQzNTYxOC42MC4wLjA.#!/donation/checkout). Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Share your memories and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com

James David Almond

July 31, 1951 - December 4, 2024