James B. Gagnon, Jr., age 88, of Willowick and formerly of Wickliffe, departed this life on August 4, 2026. Born on February 9, 1938, in Cleveland, OH, James was the cherished son of the late James, Sr. and Jean (nee Sheppard).

A proud veteran who served with honor in the U.S. Navy, James dedicated 35 years of his life working as a pressman. His faith was central to his life, as evidenced by being a longtime parishioner at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Willowick. He also held positions of trust and camaraderie within the Submarine Veterans Association and the International Northeastern Harley-Davidson Dresser and Touring Association, where he served as a trustee. His passions extended to memberships in The Retreads, the American Motorcycle Association, and the Knights of Columbus Council #5405, where he was recognized as a 3rd Degree Knight.

James was a man of enthusiasm and skill, especially fond of motorcycling and camping. For two decades, he cherished his time vacationing in Arizona until 2020. His joy was also found in the simple acts of tinkering and nurturing his ability to fix whatever came his way.

James leaves behind his beloved wife, Jean (nee Armbruster), and their devoted children: James (Mary Jane Fanara), John (Donna), and Jennifer (Ralph) Godic. He was the proud grandfather to Tara (Shawn) Lillie, Luke (Brook), Haley (JJ) Luster, Adam (Ashley), Renae (Gavin) Collins, Mitchell, and Nathan Godic, and a treasured great-grandfather to Audrey, Theo, Gabriella, and Aiden. He is also survived by his dear sister, Linda (Bob) Zerby.

The family welcomes friends to pay their respects at THE ORLANDO-DONSANTE-PREVITE FUNERAL HOME 29550 EUCLID AVE., WICKLIFFE, ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 9TH FROM 2:00 TO 6:00 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, August 10th, at St. Mary Magdalene Church, 32114 Vine St., Willowick. Burial will be in All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Twp. following the mass, where military honors will be held.

To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.orlandodonsanteprevitefh.com.