James was born in Gilroy, Ca September 4, 1966 and passed away unexpectedly on the early morning of January 3, 2025. He was the eldest of 5 children to Irene Howe and the late Lionel G. Howe. He grew up in Gilroy and attended local schools.

When James was 18 he joined the U.S. Marines and was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego. Being in the Marines brought adventure to James's life as he was able to travel the world by ship. The most memorable places he visited while being a Marine were the Philippines and Okinawa, Japan. James was a Lance Corporal and excelled as a rifleman and advanced his skills to a sharpshooter. His military career ended prematurely due injuries he sustained from an auto accident. Later, he moved back to Gilroy and worked for Preston Pipelines where he was a skilled tradesman laying various types of pipes. James took pride in his work and always gave it his all and never shied away from a hard days work.

James was a wonderful and dedicated son to his mom and would drop anything he was doing to help her. He was, also, the silly and goofy uncle to his nieces and nephews. He was so proud of all his nephews and nieces and loved to brag about them. James was so entertaining, funny and unapologetically himself which made him so very unique and special. He was truly one of a kind. Being with family is what brought so much joy to James's life. Whether it was for the holidays, birthday celebrations or just to get together for a BBQ or mom's cooking, James was so happy and fun to be around. He loved our family card games and he would spend a lot of his time attending poker tournaments with his mom and Uncle Jesse. James was, also, a loving and dedicated cat dad to Max and Cookie. His kitties were his pride and joy. His passing has left a big void in our lives. James was a loyal son, brother, nephew and a friend to all. He would do anything to help anyone in need, no hesitation. He had a heart of gold.

James is survived by his mom, Irene, sister, Rachel, brother, Richard, uncle, Jesse, Aunt, Gloria, and his nephews and nieces, Garrett, Sarah, Monique, Ricky, Aubrey, Jenna and Frankie, kitties, Max and Cookie. He was preceded in death by his dad, Lionel G. Howe, and brothers, Robert and Michael.

To know James was to love him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His energy and spirit will sorely be missed. May our James, son, brother, nephew, uncle and friend rest in eternal peace.

Services will be held privately at Habing's Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers please make a memorial donation to ASPCA for Lionel James Howe. Thank you.