James Willette

James McDuffie Willette, age 88, of Mobile, Alabama passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Friday March 21, 2025. Jim was born in Samson, Alabama on April 28, 1936. He spent his youth in Florala, Alabama. He was a life-long Methodist and a member of Christ United Methodist Church.

Jim was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved people, never met a stranger and brought joy and laughter to everyone he was around. A graduate of Auburn University, as a mechanical engineer, he spent much of his career at Ciba-Geigy. Jim loved traveling, fishing and hunting with his wife and friends. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Jim is preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Sarah Hattaway Willette. He is also preceded in death by his mother and father, Geraldine and Jesse Willette, and his brother Larry Willette.

He is survived by his brother, William Willette and three daughters, Patricia Willette Franklin (Bob), Suzanne Willette Doggett (Geoffrey) and Jina Willette Chess (Todd). He is also survived by five grandchildren: James Michael Chafin (Krista), Dusten James Doggett (Britney), John Kyle Doggett, William Bradley Chess and Jessica Lee Chess. He has five great-grandchildren: Hollyn, Arlo, Remi, Sara James and Walt.

A graveside service celebrating his life will be at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dementia Society of America.