James B. Vactor, Jr.

James B. Vactor, Jr., 92, of 229 Locust St., Meadville, passed away Friday, August 28, 2015 at Wesbury United Methodist Community.

James was born in Canonsburg, on September 30, 1922, a son of the late James B. and Matilda (Wormsley) Vactor, Sr.

On October 11, 1947 James married Evelyn A. Ross; she preceded him in death on December 23, 1991.

He was an active member of Bethel AME Church where he sang in the church choir.

After 30 years of service, James retired from the former Abex Corporation where he was employed as a molder. He had previously been employed by the former Lyle Daily Garage in Meadville. While living in Canonsburg, he was employed repairing watches and jewelry for S.A. Meyer Jewelry. A veteran of WW II, James entered the US Army on March 5, 1943 and served his country honorable until his discharge on February 2, 1946. A hard worker all of his life, following the death of his father, James quit high school after completing 10th grade to help raise and support his family as he was the oldest son. James enjoyed repairing all types of items including delicate jewelry, television sets and automobiles . He was a member of the Allegheny College Community Choir.

James is survived by a daughter Ruby Wade of Meadville with whom he lived, a son Timothy M. Vactor of Wichita, KS, five grandchildren Christine Vactor, Timothy J. Vactor, Felicia Vactor, Artisha Brown, Shauntia Vactor-Pope, six great grandchildren, a sister Margaret "Peggy" Vactor, a brother William "Bill" Vactor and his wife Sis both of Canonsburg, a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents and his wife Evelyn of 44 years, James was preceded in death by a son Terry Vactor, two brothers George Vactor, Harry Vactor, two sisters Lucille Murphy and Mildred Veal.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, September 3, 2015, from 11 AM - 1 PM at United Faith Fellowship Church, 561 State St., Meadville, where a Homecoming Service will be held at 1:00 PM with Rev. Berta Newsome Jones officiating.

Following Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006, James will be laid to rest next to his wife, Evelyn, in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 404 Chestnut St., Meadville.

Share your condolences at www.miznerfuneralhome.com