Page 146 - ShowSight, November 2020

LINES FROM LINDA
IN MEMORY OF MARY ETHEL JAMES
MARCH 7, 1921 — OCTOBER 21, 2020
BY LINDA AYERS TURNER KNORR
For 50 years, the popular professional handling team of Carroll and Mary James were fierce competition in the show ring. Even more importantly, they were loved and admired by those of us blessed to know them. The James’ impeccable character made them sought after mentors for scores
of exhibitors and newcomers in the sport. Their influence is visible today, as many well-respected judges first learned from Carroll and Mary James.
Carroll passed away on December 26, 2014 at age 90. Mary celebrated her 99th birthday just as the pandemic hit earlier this year. Southern ladies of her generation never discussed their age. She was one of those women who was always dressed impeccably and friends were always welcomed at her home in Piedmont, South Carolina. Anyone who knew her would testify that the best meal one could possibly have in the entire Greenville area would be prepared by Mary James!
The Greenville Kennel Club of today owes its proud history to leaders of the past, like Lifetime Honorary Members Carroll and Mary James who, over time, held multiple roles from President on down. Not only were the James role models in the sport, they were leaders in their Reedy Fork Baptist Church, business own- ers of T. Carroll James, and major property owners in Greenville County. They were generous givers and their donations of land will continue to make a difference in the lives of others for generations to come.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Carol “Dianne” Dooley (Larry); four grand- children, John James (Charlotte), Shelby Myers (Jason). Nikki Bert, and Eric Brent (Dawn); six great children, and daughter-in-law, Judy James. In addition, she was preceded in death by her son, Tommy James, and one grandson, Thomas James.
A private service was held on October 26, 2020 at Greenville Memorial Gar- dens. Memorial donations may be made to the Reedy Fork Baptist Church, 459 Reedy Fork Road, Greenville, South Carolina 29605.
Mary surrounded by her family members as the Greenville Kennel Club dedicated their show to her husband, the late Carroll James. Carroll and Mary were married for 70 years.
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