James Plato Fletcher, 89, of Valdese, passed away at Amorem of Valdese on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, following a period of declining health.

James was born on August 15, 1934, in Wilkes County, a child of the late Thomas P. Fletcher and Leona Cardwell Fletcher.  He served his country in the United States Navy until his retirement after twenty-one years.  Following his retirement from the Navy, he worked on the Central Florida Pipeline as an inspector.  His many hobbies included hunting, fishing, and piloting aircraft.  He loved working on his antique cars, a 1928 Model A Roadster and a 1940 Ford Coupe.

In addition to his parents, James is preceded in passing by a daughter-in-law, Theresa Fletcher.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 71 years, Carole Fletcher; sons, James Eugene “Gene” Fletcher and wife Yvonne and Jack Alan Fletcher; grandchildren, Benjamin Eugene Fletcher, Kaitlyn Fletcher Mann and husband Nicholas; and Anna Fletcher Reeves and husband Daniel; great-grandchildren, Olivia Mae, Fletcher, and Dot; and a half-brother, Edward L. Craig.

A cryptside service will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens at 11:00 AM with Pastor Mark Smith officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Amorem at 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory is assisting the family.