Kyle James

Leopold, Indiana

Perry County icon, die-hard sports fan, and hug-in-human-form, Kyle James, 45, passed away on May 27, 2024, along with his two sons, Owen and Beau, from a car accident in Crawford County.

The world was introduced to the wild-haired, boisterous boy on December 12, 1978, thanks to Larry and Marlene (Etienne) James. Between his 1997 graduation from Perry Central High School and his career as a crane operator with IUOE Local 181, Kyle built a life that exemplified dedication to family, hard work, and having as good of a time as anyone could have...anytime…anywhere.

He was joyfully united in marriage to Emily Miller on May 27, 2017. Monday, they also celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary. Kyle’s devotion to Emily was always on display, as evidenced by an extensive selfie collection and an infinite string of text messages reminding her to “take lots of pics!” on any non-Kyle trips.

Kyle was never caught sitting around for too long. A true country boy, he treasured the outdoors, whether bow hunting, fishing, boating, or hiking. Though his family’s farm and prized Herefords were just up the road, he and Emily were starting their own little farm that included rabbits, peacocks, chickens…and three cats (whom Kyle secretly loved even though he told Emily otherwise).

Kyle loved sports - just ask about his hat collection. IU basketball, St. Louis Cardinals, Indianapolis Colts and Notre Dame football were among his favorites, and of course, his big voice shouting “Let’s Go Hoosiers” was one of his favorite cheers.

A well-loved pillar of his community, Kyle was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, IUOE Local 181, Branchville Conservation Club, Ohio River Valley Bow Hunters Club, and was a 10 year 4-H member, where he continued to volunteer. Kyle was a Hunter Education Instructor who used his skills to instill passion for the outdoors in others.

Surviving is his wife of seven years, Emily James; daughters, Trista James Marshall (Brian) and Addison “A.J.” James; his parents, Larry and Marlene James; sister, Kristy Herr (Brian) and his nephew and nieces, Jerett, Josey, Jenna and Jaclyn Herr; extended family and countless friends.

Described by many as “larger than life,” Kyle never knew a stranger. He showed love easily, whether to his family, his friends, or the cashier he’d never met. In exchange, everyone easily loved Kyle. The world was his friend, so in honor of him, be a friend to the world. Hug tightly, live with a big heart, and part ways with those you know using Kyle’s booming farewell, “Love you, bye-bye!”

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM CDT on Saturday, June 1 at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Leopold. Rev. Brian Esarey and Rev. Luke Waugh will concelebrate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 31st from 12:00-8:00 PM and Saturday, June 1st from 8:00-10:00 AM at Huber Funeral Home, Tell City Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Perry County 4-H, St. Augustine Church Restoration, or the Perry Central Education Foundation, where Emily is beginning a scholarship in Kyle’s name for graduating seniors who pursue a trade.

Condolences for the family may be left at huberfuneralhome.com