James Odell Richeson, a long-time resident of the Chalkville area, died peacefully Monday the 17th of November with his family at his side. James was born on August 6, 1927 in Cherry Hill, Alabama, the oldest son of Isaac and Ida Richeson and brother of John Richeson. He was married to Julia Calhoun Richeson for 61 years. He was a faithful Christian, baptized in Cherry Hill, and a longtime member of Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church. At Taylor Memorial, James was head usher and a cemetery board member. He prepared hot coffee every Sunday morning for Sunday school. After serving in the Army after World War II, James moved to Birmingham and was working as a mechanic at a service station where he met his beloved Julia. James loved time with family and friends, volunteering, driving his van, finding good deals, and collecting and repairing timepieces of all kinds. James was an active member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors since 1970 belonging to both the Birmingham and Huntsville chapters. James was preceded in death by his wife and brother. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Ann Richeson, and several nieces and nephews. Visitation and funeral services will be Friday, November 21st, at Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church in Birmingham. Visitation will be from 10:00AM until 11:00AM, followed immediately by the funeral service. Internment and a graveside service will be held at 3:00PM at Cherry Hill Baptist Church Cemetery, located approximately 2.5 miles south down County Road 83 beginning at the intersection of Alabama Hwy 24 and County Road 83 east of Russellville, AL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church, 2501 Sweeney Hollow Road, Birmingham, AL. 35215 or to Cherry Hill Baptist Church, 2603 Hwy 244, Russellville, AL. 35654. Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Trussville has been entrusted with arrangements. 205-322-0543
