NORTH VERNON
James Reed Bird, 80, of North Vernon, passed away at 11:07 a.m. on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis.
Born June 18, 1943, in Marion, he was the son of the late Reed and Lenora Nell (Holcomb) Bird. He married Beverly Kay (Lucas) Bird on November 6, 1993, in North Vernon; she survives.
James graduated from Paris Crossing High School in 1961 and went on to serve in the U.S. Army for twelve years. He worked as a drill operator for Decatur Mold in North Vernon for 23 years before retiring in 2005. After his retirement, he worked part time at Auto Zone and Wal-Mart, both in North Vernon. James was a member of the North Vernon Senior Center and enjoyed playing cards, being outside, playing with his grandkids, and spending time with his family.
Surviving with his wife, Beverly Bird of North Vernon, are his daughters, Cecilia Ann Bird and Sandra Kelly (Scott) Bishop, both of North Vernon; brother, Charles R. Bird of North Vernon; grandchildren, Lindsey (Brian) Wooley, Cody (Kayla) Bishop, Kelsey (Chad) McHaley, Edward Bishop, Alessa Jarrell, Caleb Jarrell, and Matthew Jarrell, all of North Vernon; thirteen great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas “T-Bird” Bird; and sisters, Dora Lee Young and Judy Bird.
A funeral service for James will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Dove-Sharp &Rudicel Funeral Home and Cremation Services in North Vernon with Rev. Billy Higgs officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow in Vernon Cemetery with graveside military rites given by Matt Hester VFW Post #2021.
Memorial donations may be made through the funeral home in honor of James to Mercy Rescue and Adoption Inc.
