William "Porky" Karlisle James

William “Porky” Karlisle James, born on November 21, 1949, in Haywood County, North Carolina, passed away on December 29, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ann James, who passed away in 2018, his parents, Karlisle and Edith Smith James, and his brother, Anthony Dale James.

William devoted 26 years of his professional life to Dayco in Curved Hose, where he exemplified commitment and hard work. His dedication to service also extended to the Haywood County School Systems, where he contributed 10 years.

William found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including his love for hunting. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and cherished the moments spent in nature. His passion for farm life was reflected in his affection for his cattle and the cattle farm he and his brother Alan operated together. Above all, William significantly valued the time spent with family and friends, fostering connections that lasted a lifetime.

William is survived by his son, Shawn James; stepdaughter, Jacque Sherrill (Tony); stepson, Terry Haney (Joy); and brother, Alan James (Elizabeth). He was the grandfather to Dalton, Alex James, and Michaela Henderson (Ethan), as well as step-grandfather to Chris Haney, Tasha Ball (Jason), Jason Sherrill, Hunter Haney, and Jessica Palmer (Chase).

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, North Carolina. A funeral service will be conducted on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 2:00 PM at James Chapel Church in Clyde, followed by a burial at Upper Crabtree Community Cemetery at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Upper Crabtree Community Cemetery Fund, 64 Footsy Drive, Clyde, NC 28721.

William Karlisle James will be remembered fondly for his kindness, dedication to his work, and the love he shared with his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and community spirit that will endure in the hearts of those who knew him.

The care of Mr. James has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville