Michael John James

October 4, 1972 - February 25, 2017
Michael John James

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Michael John James passed away unexpectedly last week at his home.

He was born October 4th, 1972, in Wilmington, NC to Marjorie Joan Cecil and Aubrey Carl James.

Michael worked as a set designer at Screen Gems Studios for two decades and was well-respected by all.

He was preceded in death by his mother, and is survived by his father; two sisters, Karen and Tim Frank of Leland, Brinda and Tim McKinney of Leland; and his 6 nieces and nephews.

He will always be remembered for his good humor, laugh, and hard work.

There will be a celebration of Michael’s life for family and friends. Details will be included at a later date.

Shared memories, stories, and pictures are much appreciated by his family.

Please share your memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S.41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403. 910.791.9099.


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  • February 28, 2017
    James Oñate says:
    Michael James was a dear friend. We worked together over 20 years in the film industry. Michael was easy to talk to and knowledgeable in many things - everything from music, cars, trucks, antiques and guns. It was an honor to have known him. I have always valued his honesty, good nature and willingness to work hard, but the thing I liked most about him was that he was always easy to get along with and always In a good mood. He was one of the few people who didn't see what people looked like on the outside - he treated all people with respect and kindness. When I saw him on the set, I felt good because I knew the job would get done and be done well. He was always dependable and conscientious at work. I liked the way he enjoyed life and working in film gave him opportunities for many great adventures. I will miss him, dearly.

  • February 28, 2017
    Brian Lee says:
    Michael James was an amazing character and person that I truly feel blessed to have had the chance to work and spend time with Mikey outside of work. At work he was the most motivated and focused person on the jobsite,more energy than you would think humanly possible to pack into just one human being! And outside or work,just as mellow and fun as could be....just knew how to make someone feel at home! As down to earth and transparent as Michael was on a consistent basis,he was also just as complex,intellectual,spiritual all at the same time! He would always put himself last....everyone else in mind first! I've always admired his ability to see and treat everyone the same...a huge heart that he was willing to give to anyone in need....or needed help with something! Michael " The Collector" James.....that's who Mikey is to me! To know Michael and what truly made him happy....taking his passions and making them ALL into collections,that simple! But yet that important....his Clocks , Vintage Vinyl Albums , Coins , knives , guns,phonograph.....and many other things as well! His love for music and the quality of audio while listening to something was even a passion and long time build of sorts as well...to sit in his living room and listen to your favorite vinyl was like hearing that album like the first time ever and better than your could ever imagine!! His creation so technically advanced that it could shake the glass in every window of the house,drop pictures off the walls....but yet clear as a bell! The man was always surprising you with his vast amount of knowledge on so many different subjects....a true treasure trove! But what Iwill miss the most just sitting with Mikey talking and drinking coffee out of his famous French Drip coffee machine.....and then to hear "that laugh "....yup,THE LAUGH....the one that only could ever come from Michael James! That's who he was and who we all lost and need to hold close to our hearts...Id like to think that WE ALL....ALL OF US,were another one of Michaels collections that WE ALL need to honor and try and hold together like all of his collections he spent so much time and passion building! thank you Michael James!

  • February 28, 2017
    JT & Penny Thomas says:
    Mike James is one of the most special people you could ever know ! JT & I have been LUCKY to know him for over 20 years and he will be greatly missed ! He was alway there to help and if you needed something 9 out of ten times he had already gotten it for you with a big smile on his face !!!!!! He is going to be missed very very much and I'm going to miss hearing he Laugh! BUT WAIT !!!!! I hear it now !!! Gone but NEVER FORGOTTEN !!!! We LOVE you MIKEY !!!!!!! Thanks for being YOU !!!

  • March 01, 2017
    J.SMITH says:
    TO THE FAMILY OF MICHAEL JOHN JAMES. I AM SO VERY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE. PLEASE KNOW THAT GOD IS AWARE OF YOUR SUFFERING AND HE CARES ABOUT YOU. 2 CORINTHIANS 1:3,4. HE UNDERSTANDS YOUR PAIN AS HE TOO EXPERIENCED THE LOSS OF A SON CHRIST JESUS. JESUS DESIRES TO REUNITE US WITH OUR DECEASED LOVED ONES AGAIN BY MEANS OF A RESURRECTION TO LIFE HERE ON A BEAUTIFUL PARADISE EARTH WHERE SICKNESS, PAIN AND DEATH WILL BE NO MORE. MAY THIS BE YOUR HOPE. ACTS24:15; JOHN 5:28,29; PSALMS 37:10,11,29; & REVELATION 21:3-5. PLEASE ACCEPT MY SINCERE SINCERE CONDOLENCES. J.SMITH

  • March 02, 2017
    Darlene Vega lit a candle:
    Lit since March 2, 2017 at 3:37:11 PM