George James Obituary

George Daniel James passed peacefully in his home at the age of 67, surrounded by his children, siblings, and loved ones, following a courageous battle with stomach cancer.
Loving son of the late George Edwin and Lotus Marie James.
Beloved father of Stephanie Marie, Austin Daniel and George Allen (Victoria). Cherished brother and brother-in-law of the late Dennis and Debbie James, Gloria and the late Joe Wittig, Barb (Julius), and Larry (MaryGrace). Proud grandfather of the late Jayden Leigh, Gavin Richard, Scarlett Lotus, Dylan Lee, Seven George, Nora Maye and George David. Devoted companion and lifelong friend to Jose Perez and Sandy James (nee Berens). Further survived by his beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and countless friends.
George was an employee of JCPenny, Color Corporation, Woolworth Store Services, Burton & Meyer and Components Company, Inc. An avid thriftier with a love of flea markets and rummage sales, George was always on the hunt for a good bargain.
In 1999, he opened Gee Jay's Discount Variety Store at 6606 W. Lisbon Rd. in Milwaukee, fulfilling his lifelong dream of owning and operating a brick-and-mortar retail store. His store offered "Everything Under the Sun", from discount merchandise to penny candy to his loyal customers, family and friends alike.
George was a selfless, conscientious soul, who always had a smile on his face, a joke to share in conversation and often a meaningful token or gift that spoke directly to the many lives he touched.
George cherished spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He loved the beach, sunsets, fried clams, dancing and music, especially Dolly Parton. In March 2025, he fulfilled a lifelong "bucket list" item, visiting Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN with his family. He is also preceded in death by his beloved cats Dolly, Nino, and Tobey.
The James family wishes to extend their profound gratitude to George's care team at Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin's Cancer Center and Center for Advanced Care, as well as Horizon Home Care & Hospice. May George's infectious joy, positive spirit and love of life live on through all whom he encountered.
A visitation and service to honor and celebrate George's life will be held at Hartson Funeral Home, 11111 W. Janesville Rd., Hales Corners, WI, on Sunday, November 9, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with service to follow at 12:00 PM.
-"And I think to myself, what a Wonderful World." – Louis Armstrong