James D Sheese
March 10, 1940 - January 31, 2022
James Dale Sheese, 81, of Brazil, Indiana, passed away at St. Vincent Clay Hospital, on January 31, 2022.
Jim was born on March 10, 1940, in Clay County, Indiana, the son of Chelas and Marie (Rader) Sheese. He attended VanBuren High School and then graduated from Cloverdale High School with the class of 1958. While he was in high school, he played basketball and excelled as a baseball pitcher. Jim graduated from Indiana State University where he played both basketball and baseball. He graduated in 1963 after earning a master’s degree in education. Jim married Deanna Ratcliff on March 9, 1963. They moved to Russellville, Indiana, where Mr. Sheese taught 5th grade at Russellville Elementary School for 6 years. They moved back to Brazil where Jim spent the rest of his career with Clay Community Schools. He taught at the Brazil Junior High School, Brazil High School, Staunton High School, and Northview High School. Jim coached baseball, basketball, track, and cross country for many years. He also taught Physical Education, Health, Science, Biology, Drivers Education, and Survival Training. Jim served as a camp counselor at DePauw University Drug and Alcohol Abuse Summer Camp. He served as a Brazil City Council member for 20 years.
When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed squirrel and deer hunting, fishing, wood working, and taking care of his beloved truck. Jim dearly loved his kids and grandkids who brought so much joy to his heart. He enjoyed spending time watching them excel in sports and other extracurricular activities.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Chelas and Marie Sheese and his sister Marilyn Whittington.
Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 59 years Deanna Sheese; 3 children: Jamee Reberger (John) of Brazil, Sheri Sheese (Pam) of Michigan, and Zacree Sheese (Autumn) of Brazil; grandchildren: John Adam Reberger, Lauren Allen (Shea), Macalister James Sheese, Kasen, and Azira; great-granddaughter: Amelia “Millie” Allen; brother-in-law Warren Whittington; as well as many extended family members and friends.
Visitation will be at Lawson – Miller Chapel, 1702 E. National Ave. Brazil, Indiana 47834, on Saturday, February 5, 2022, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Services will follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Mark Grayless officiating. Burial will be held at Union Cemetery, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Clay County Humane Society 8280 N County Rd 125 W #7535, Brazil, IN 47834.
Visit www.frenchfuneralhome.com to light a candle in his memory.
