James R. Chamberlain 'J.R.'
In Loving Memory
I am a classmate of JRs. I was sad to hear about his passing. Alisha, I think I met you at a class rennion. Thank you for letting the people in Orderville know about you dad. The last time I talked to your dad about a class reunion, he told me his health was not the best. He was a fun classmate and as you inferred was full of mischief. We were a pretty tight class and had a lot of fun. The old photos brought back lots of good memories. I am trying to get the information out to his classmates. With love, Wilda and the class of 59, best class ever.
Paris, France. Very early Wednesday morning, March 27. I quickly check my messages before packing up for our journey home. Hmm … A text from Bishop Hyde. Click. “Hi Rich. Just want to let you know that J.R. passed away yesterday. His daughter was there and he went peacefully.”
I was shocked and brokenhearted. J.R., my dear friend and brother, had slipped away … and I had not been there to express my love, to offer support, or to say goodbye.
So, these few words of reflection and affection for J.R. Chamberlain will have to do.
About twenty years ago I was blessed to become J.R.’s home teacher. Our friendship quickly grew. J.R. was courageously making significant changes in his life, striving for a deeper faith in our Savior. He had begun a thoughtful study of the scriptures and had lots of questions. What a joy it was to share deep thoughts as we discussed significant doctrines and spiritual feelings. Along with his study of the Bible and the Book of Mormon, J.R. became a voracious reader of inspiring and informative books on every gospel topic. As his doctrinal understanding grew, our discussions became even more meaningful.
During this time J.R. volunteered as a temple worker in the baptistery of the Jordan River Temple; he also had several medical procedures and surgeries. Before each one he asked for a priesthood blessing, always expressing the great help and comfort they were to him.
As I spent time with J.R. over the years, I was continually impressed with his optimism and positive attitude. He always had a smile and an upbeat way of dealing with the challenges in his life. I never heard J.R. disparage others, and he was very humble about his own weaknesses. We often had good laughs over our embarrassing health issues. He was fun to be with.
J.R. was a devoted father to his beloved daughter, Alisha. He frequently expressed his love, concern, and admiration for her. He was very grateful for the time, the care, and the love she shared with him.
J.R. was a wonderful friend to me. He was compassionate and concerned for my well-being. He thoughtfully read every iteration of my novel and offered kind compliments and feedback. We had fun discussing our political leanings and our love of good food. Each spring J.R. looked forward to planting his tomatoes, delightfully anticipating the delicious, garden-ripe tomato sandwiches that would soon be. This past December we had planned to do a temple session together, but he had to cancel due to health concerns. I wish it would have worked out.
Not that long ago I would often see J.R. speeding by our home on his bike, a big smile on his face, and a friendly wave. He loved being outdoors and staying fit. I like to picture him in his new world … healthy, happy, and able to do the things he loves.
God be with you, J.R. … ‘til we meet again.
I was JR's neighbor and if it could be we half the man JR was I would be successful. We still kept in touch and I will deeply miss my friend.
love you JR RIP my friend
I was JR's neighbor and if it could be we half the man JR was I would be were successful. We still kept in touch and I will deeply miss my friend.
love you JR RIP my friend