James Vining

James Madison Vining, 98, passed away at Willow Manor in Vincennes, IN, on November 26th. Born on December 10th, 1913 at his home in Lakeland, Georgia, James was the son of George Wiley and Rhoda (Corbitt) Vining; and the youngest of eight children. A World War II veteran, he served in France, Italy, and North Africa, from 1941-1945. A member of the Army's 431st Signal Corps, he was sent ahead of the troops to lay communications lines. Soon after his return to the United States, James married his sweetheart, Willie Maness. They were together for 65 years, until her death in 2010, at 93. They settled in Greensboro, North Carolina, where James worked at Burlington Industries for 50 years. Playing basketball on a company team, he enjoyed much success and was a minor celebrity. An avid fisherman, he often visited his only brother, Leon, in Florida for many years of fishing. Known as the "Peanut Man" in Carolina for his delicious fried peanuts, James was beloved by many people in his long life. His dry wit, wonderful sense of humor, and storytelling, will live on among friends, family, and acquaintances. After his wife's death, James moved to Vincennes, Indiana to live with his daughter and son-in-law. He loved Vincennes, and was very happy being part of his family's busy lives. James is survived by his daughter Martha; son-in-law Harry Meeks; granddaughters, Molly and Melanie Meeks; nephews George Brown and Robert Brown; niece Virginia Brown of Marietta, Georgia; niece Jonelle Grantham of Birmingham, Alabama; sister-in-law Mimi Ingold of Greensboro, NC and nephew Steve Ingold of Marietta, GA. There will be a memorial service for James in Greensboro, NC and in Willacoochee, GA in the spring and summer. Goodwin Funeral Home, 524 Broadway, Vincennes, IN 47591 is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.goodwinfamilyfh.com.