Vivian James

Canton – Vivian Penland James, 77, passed away on Friday, January 8, 2021 at Indian Path Hospital in Kingsport, Tennessee.

A native of Buncombe County, she was the daughter of the late Gordon “Shorty” and Virginia Wilson Penland.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Ersie J. James, who died in 2003 and several friends and family members.  Vivian received a Bachelor’s Degree in Dietary Management from Auburn University.

She is survived by two daughters, Sherri Duvall (Mike) of Kingsport, Tennessee and Pam Gravel (Tony) of Canton; a son, Terry James (Lisa) of Clyde; a sister, Betty Laird of Candler; a brother, Greg Penland of Canton; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, services for Vivian will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SARGE’S Animal Rescue Foundation, 256 Industrial Park Drive, Waynesville, NC  28786.

The care of Mrs. James has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com