Gregory C. “Greg” James, 71, of Glenville, WV departed this earthly life to be reunited with his loving parents (Clark and Helen) on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at his residence following a sudden illness.
He was born October 19, 1954, son of the late Clark R. and Helen R. (Radcliff) James.
Greg is a graduate of Gilmer County High School, Class of 1972, and Glenville State University, Class of 1976. After graduating with a degree in music education, Greg began a prolific career as a band director of the Lumberjack Express for Richwood High School marching band in Nicholas County, WV.
For more than 50 years, Greg dedicated himself to Richwood High School & the Lumberjack Express, inspiring generations of students through his leadership, encouragement, and unwavering support. Under his tutelage, the Lumberjack Express became a nationally recognized marching band having played at venues such as the Grand Ole Opry, the Gator Bowl, Walt Disney World, the Indianapolis 500, and the Kentucky Derby to name a few. Although not driven by personal accolades, Greg received numerous awards including West Virginia Outstanding Teacher award, recognition by the School Band and Orchestra Magazine as one of the “50 Directors who make a difference”, the Erma Boyce Outstanding Teacher Award, and the Pharis Reader Award for Outstanding Community Service. In 2015 he was inducted into the West Virginia Band Directors Hall of Fame.
Greg’s true legacy comes not from his personal accomplishments, but from his students and his relentless belief in those students. His refusal to let any barrier stand in their way was a cornerstone of who Greg was. The life lessons he taught through music and band carries on through the students he touched over a long and lustrous career. While he influenced so many lives, those who knew him best remember him most for his kindness, generosity, and genuine love for others. Greg wasn’t just respected—he was deeply loved. His legacy will continue to live on in the countless people he encouraged, the community he helped shape, and the memories shared by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Greg is the last of his immediate family having been preceded in death by his parents (Clark and Helen), and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and other extended family members.
Left to cherish his memory are extended family members, friends, and many students and faculty he has worked with over his life and career.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his honor to the Richwood High School Band Boosters, 100 Lumberjack Loop, Richwood, WV; 26261.
A funeral service will be conducted at the Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., 2 Vanhorn Drive, Glenville, WV; 26351 at 11:00 AM; Tuesday, June 16, 2026 with Pastor Bryan Groves officiating. Burial will follow in the Meadow Lane Cemetery in Glenville. Friends will be received from 4:00 – 8:00 PM; Monday evening at the mortuary in Glenville.
Following services in Gilmer County, a memorial service in honor of Greg will be conducted at the Richwood High School, 100 Lumberjack Loop, Richwood, WV; 26261 on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 11:00 am.
Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., is honored to assist the family and friends of Gregory C. “Greg” James with traditional burial arrangements.
