James Houston Spain Jr, a machinist and lifelong resident of Opelika, passed away Jan. 26, 2021 at his home.
James was preceded in death by his parents James Houston Spain, Sr. and Marjorie Delbridge Spain of Opelika. He is survived by his wife Sherie Spain; his sister Mary Louise Spain Sanders (David) of Gardendale, his brothers John “Mark” Spain (Margaret) of Montgomery and Benjamin D. Spain (Cindy) of Opelika; sons, Jim Spain (Amy) of Opelika, Timothy Spain (Jennifer) of Covington GA, Jacob Spain (Grace) of Beulah; stepson Mason Beard (Kari) of Atlanta, GA; and grandchildren, Katie Spain, Felicity Spain, Hudson Spain, Ezra Spain, Charlotte Spain, Abby Beard, Brooke Beard, and Will Beard.
James was a devout husband that loved his family unconditionally. One of his proudest accomplishments was working at Rexnord (Falk Corporation) for more than 40 years. He was a man of many talents who built world class stereo systems in his spare time. His personal turn table is one of a kind as he delicately designed and machined it to sound as though you are on the stage at Carnegie Hall. James also loved pipe organs and has two in his home that he spent many weeks installing with his sons. James loved art, music, literature, and the culinary arts. His greatest achievement as a father was passing down that love to his three sons.
In demonstrating his love for his community, James and his wife, Sherie, have been instrumental in working with the Potters of Rocky Brook in the Empty Bowls Fundraiser. This event has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the East Alabama Community Food Bank over the past several years. His presence will be missed.
In lieu of flowers please donate to:
Empty Bowls Fundraiser
1102 Denson Drive
Opelika AL 36801.