Loran Coburn James

Loran Coburn James passed away April 5, 2025 with his wife and three children by his side. Loran was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His family will always remember him for the joy he brought to life and his unconditional love. Loran was born December 30, 1946, in Logan, West Virginia. He was the only son of Lorraine (Yak) and Marjorie James and the brother of two sisters, Jean Alice Tumlin and Jorie Burns. At a young age Loran developed a love of sports and could be found at the basketball gym or tennis court. Loran graduated from Logan High School in 1964, and he attended Old Dominion College, Southern West Virginia Community College, and Southern Polytechnic State University. Loran started his career as a mining engineer for Jones and Laughlin Steel before transitioning into the building materials industry. He worked for the Marietta Lumber Company for over a decade and finished his career with Randall Brothers Inc. in Atlanta. From an earlier marriage, Loran had his first child, Ginger Michele James, who shares his love of woodworking and Christmas. On September 17, 1976, Loran married his wife, Helen Gresha James. They were married for nearly 49 years when he passed away. Their marriage was full of love. They were each other's best friend and an example to their children of what it means to be a partner. They lived in West Virginia until 1983 when they moved to Marietta, Georgia, to be close to family. Loran and Gresha had two children, Justin James and Jessica James Poole. All three of his children will remember him as an amazing father who never missed a game, coached all three in sports, always helped with homework, and was each one’s biggest fan. He not only was a fabulous father when his children were young, but he continued to play a critical role in their adult lives. He spoke on the phone to each of his children daily, looked forward to their visits and he was the best Papa to his four grandchildren. One of Loran’s passions was playing tennis, winning dozens of ALTA city finals with his wife Gresha as his mixed doubles partner. He also loved woodworking, building beautiful furniture that his family will cherish for years to come. Loran found joy in being outside in the garden with his wife, planting flowers and growing vegetables. He could often be found on the back porch watching the birds and enjoying the sunshine. Loran also loved animals, and his dogs were his constant companions. Loran’s family will remember how smart he was, having no issue working any problem to find a solution. They will remember him for his big/happy personality, booming infectious laugh, steadfast joy and dedication to his family. Loran is survived by his wife, Helen Gresha James; his daughter Ginger Michele James; his son, Justin James, (wife Cassie James); and his daughter Jessica Poole (husband Ross Poole). As well as four grandchildren, James Poole, Kate Poole, Elijah James and Emma James; and his sister Jean Alice Tumlin (brother-in-law Steve Thunder Tumlin) and several nieces and nephews. A service to celebrate Loran’s life will be held on May 10, 2025, with a visitation from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and his service following at 4:00 p.m. at Mayes Ward Funeral Home in historic downtown Marietta. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America or Trees Atlanta.

Loran Coburn James

December 30, 1946 - April 5, 2025