James Arthur Burris, 90, passed away at his residence on Sunday September 20, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Washington, In to Lowell C. and Elma (Hitch) Burris on June 11, 1925. James married Billie Sue Burris on September 21, 1956 and had 58 loving years together.
James was owner and proprietor of Mischler’s Tavern in Washington, IN since 1948. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Washington, and VFW Post 3321. James was a member of the 551st Airborne, he fought battles in: Rome-Arno; Southern France, the Ardennes in Belgium, Rhineland, and Central Europe. In December, 1944, the 551st was ordered to the Battle of the Bulge. The Battle of the Bulge proved to be a significant battle in World War II and the 551st played an important role in its success. Starting with 700 men and only 96 survived, they were known as “The Lost Battalion”.
Survived by his children; Christina Cassidy (Mark) of North Carolina; Cheryl Chattin(Steve) of Washington, IN; Pamela Johnson (Jeffrey) of Texas; Jennifer Noble (Steve) of Avon, IN; James A. Burris Jr. (Samantha) of Lebanon, IN; and nine Grandchildren, and 5 Great- Grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife Billie Sue Burris, his parents Lowell and Elma Burris, his sisters; Lucille Grannan, Barbara Emmons Cassidy, Margie Brothers, and his brothers; Charles Burris, Clyde (Dickie) Burris, and Robert Burris.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday the 23rd of September from 4-8 at Gill Funeral Home. Services will be held on Thursday the 24th at the Funeral Home with a one hour visitation 12-1, with funeral service starting at 1 with Reverend Phillip Kessen officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery with Military Funeral Honors by the American Legion and VFW Honor Guard. Memorials can be made to Honor Flight of Southern Indiana, P.O Box 8234 Evansville, IN 47716. Online condolences to the family can be made at www.gillsince1872.com
