James Lemon

James Richard Lemon of Lady Lake, Florida formerly of Scotts, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at the age of 81. He was born on May 9, 1942, in Kalamazoo the son of Richard and Jean (Eastman) Lemon.

He graduated from Galesburg High School and went to work as a steam pipe fitter as well as assisting his parents farm their family land. He worked as a volunteer at the Miami Zoo for several years and was the President of the volunteers for the Villages Hospital. 

Jim was very involved in the National Rabbit Breeders Association for many years.  The family house was known as Lemon’s Brookside Rabbitry.  He had many different breeds of rabbits which he showed and also was a judge for rabbit shows. 

He enjoyed going to The Orange Blossom Opry House to listen to the band groups or tribute groups from his generation. He went to the Gator Nationals every year until the past couple of years. He loved having the Top Eliminator seats. He would get there first thing and wouldn’t leave until the last race had been run.

He loved to travel, his favorite trips were visiting his children across the country and going to Alaska to enjoy the natural beauty. 

James is preceded In his passing by his parents and his wife Connie (Reid) Lemon. 

Left to cherish James’ memory are his children: Kevin (Kim) Lemon of Olympia, WA, Michelle (Aaron) Brazier of Plainwell, MI, Teresa (Kevin) Kniesly of Plymouth, IN, Becky (Duane) Bohne of Homestead, FL and Charles Graff of New York, NY. Grandchildren: Aleisha Lemon, Sean Lemon, Shannon Guckien, Zachary Shirey, James Brazier, Jenelle Ashbrook, Kourtney Ellington and Kristina Kniesly and 10 great grandchildren. 

In accordance with the family’s wishes public services will be held at Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 with time for visiting beginning at 1:00 pm until the time of service at 2:00 pm on Friday, February 16, 2024. James will be laid to rest at Cook Cemetery following the service.

James lived a long fulfilled life with many twists and turns during his journey. He will be greatly missed.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign James’ guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Lemon family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society, Disabled American Veterans, Families of the Fallen or Wounded Warrior Project.