James Herschel Chism was born January 20, 1926 in Wichita, Kansas.

He was born to Bernice Price and James Kenneth Chism. He had one sister Julia Lee Chism-Lee. He attended public schools and graduated from East High School in 1943.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, and daughters, Beverly, and Marilyn "Judy".

James joined the Navy on August 2, 1943. He came out in June 1946. He received the American Area Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. James enjoyed his time in the service and loved sharing his stories.

James met and married Geraldine Daniels on July 14, 1949. To this union were four children, Terry, Beverly, Marilyn "Judy", and Dr. James G. Chism, "Manny". James worked at Cudahy Packing House and Coleman Company for 25 years. He retired from Superior Meats in 1988.

James was a devoted man of God. He attended Madison Avenue and Chisholm Trail Church of Christ. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great- grandfather and great-great grandfather. He loved his family, traveling, and being outdoors. We all loved his Bar-B-Que and homemade sauce.

He leaves his beloved wife of 71 years, Geraldine Chism, daughter Terry L. Stewart, and son Dr. James G. Chism "Manny", 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great grandchildren, host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.