James Clair Mack, Sr., 76, of Plumville died Friday, November 2, 2018 at the Indiana Regional Medical Center. Born in Strongstown, November 30, 1941, he was a son of the late James Logan Mack and Loretta (Boring) Mack. He was the husband of Elaine Marsha (Bash) Mack whom he married May 18, 1962.
A graduate of the former Heilwood High School, James had a lengthy career in the coal mines and coal related businesses. His first job was with National Mines of Indiana where he worked as an advertising manager. He went on to work for other coal companies in the area, such as: Mears Coal Co., Old Home Manor Coal Co., Plateau Coal Co., and lastly he worked for the Rochester and Pittsburgh Coal Co.
Mr. Mack reluctantly left the mines due to a health concern. His last job was with the Andersen Window Company in Carlisle. Ironically, one of his first jobs was a brief position with Brody’s Department Store in Indiana, a job that essentially launched his brother Philip’s career with Brody’s.
James enjoyed singing and playing his guitar in service of his Lord and Savior, and through his gospel singing ministered to several churches within Indiana County. He loved to go camping with his family, especially his grandchildren. In addition to camping, he loved the outdoors and spending time outside working around his home. He was a faithful member of the Homer City Church of the Nazarene.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Elanie M. (Bash) Mack, Plumville and his three children: James C. Mack, Jr. (Jamie), Homer City; Joyce R. Piper (David), Indiana and Janice L. Stiffler (Tim), Clymer. His surviving grandchildren are: Brent Kensey (Colleen); Lauren Twigg; Andrea Crumrine (Luke); Tyler Stiffler; Amanda Stiffler; Luke Piper and Andrew Piper. His great grandchildren are: Alaina and Alivia Twigg and Lilly Crumrine. His surviving siblings are: Naomi Weiserman (William), Nolo; Ruth Ann Simon (Rodney), Shippensburg and Sister-in-law, Dolores Mack, Clymer. Other surviving family members include his 13 nieces and nephews and other great nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brother, Rev. Philip L. Mack who died, October 16, 2017.
Friends will be received, Monday, November 5th from 2 until 4 and 6 until 8 PM at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home of Indiana where his funeral service will be held Tuesday morning at 11 AM. Rev. Chuck Lockard will officiate. Interment will be in the Oakland Cemetery, Indiana.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association by visiting www.heart.org.
Online condolences may be made by visiting: www.rbfh.net.
