James L. "Jim" Bellah, 83, of Rossville went to be with the Lord at 5:40 am, Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born February 25, 1934 in Lafayette to the late William Rufus and Thelma May (Martin) Bellah.

He attended Lafayette Jefferson School. James married the love of his life Virginia L. Long on January 3, 1954 in Rossville, she preceded him in death on June 22, 2017. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal for his service in Korea while proudly serving in the United States Army. He was a member of River City Church (formerly, First Assembly Community Ministries) of Lafayette. James worked as a machinist for Eli Lilly, retiring after 20 years.

He cherished time spent with his family. He also enjoyed fishing, collecting coins, watching western movies, and traveling. He also liked playing games, especially Aggravation. He loved attending church services and listening to music.

He is survived by 3 children, Michael (Lynn Marie) Bellah, Janet Blackburn, Donald Bellah; 14 grandchildren, Joshua Bellah (fiancee, Meagan Sandy), Stephanie (Kurt) Ziems, Melissa (Jeff) Herrin, Reanna (Aaron) Ramsey, Amanda (Brent) Oakes, Jennifer Bellah, A. J. (Chatty) Blackburn, Maggie (Matt) Dale, Christopher Bellah, Micah (Michael) Meador-Bostic, Drew McCombs, Kiersten McCombs (fiance, Erik Hoffman); 18 great grandchildren, Ryan (Chelsea) Ziems, Christopher (Amy) Ziems, Bryce Ziems, Kendal Ziems, Jaidlynn Herrin, Ryleigh Herrin, Lucy Herrin, Blaine Ramsey, Alexis Ramsey, Tiesoun Oakes, Cayden Oakes, Aleece Oakes, Spencer Oakes, Trey Campbell, Stevie Blackburn, Mason Dale, Haley Bellah, Ariyah Meador, MaeLea Meador, Lyrik Bostic; and 2 on the way; 1 great-great grandchild, Macie Ziems, and 3 on the way; 1 sister, Martha Jane McIver; and many nieces and nephews.

Along with his wife and parents he was preceded in death by a daughter, Karen Green; daughter-in-law, Debbie Bellah; and 14 siblings.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until time of service at 12:00 noon, Friday, January 12, 2018 at River City Church (First Assembly Community Ministries), 108 Beck Lane, Lafayette with Pastor Robbie Bradford officiating.

Interment will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Park, Lafayette where military honors will be rendered.