James Courtney

Beloved Husband of Enid, much loved Dad of Julie and Paula, dear Father in Law of Harry and Jason, dearly loved Grandad of Lindsey, Rebecca, Khole and Joanna, loving Great Grandad of Haydn, Bella-Rose, Matilda, Katie, Aubree, Lenny and Poppy, and dear Brother of Bill and the late Isabel, Margaret and Billy. Born in Glasgow in 1938, James moved to Mill Street, Clayton Le Moors, at the age of two. He attended Mount Pleasant School in Clayton Le Moors, and after finishing his education, he began working as a salesman at Millers. At 18, he served his national service in Cyprus, achieving the rank of Lance Corporal. Upon returning from Cyprus, James continued his career in sales at Collis & Pooles before joining Rists Wires and Cables, where he worked as a manager. He dedicated 40 years to the company before taking early retirement at the age of 55. A talented footballer, James was approached by scouts from Accrington Stanley and Burnley Football Club at just 17 years old. Though he didn’t pursue a professional football career, his love for the sport remained strong. James married Enid in 1960, and together they built a loving home, living in Clayton Le Moors, Whalley Road in Accrington, and later settling in Church for the past 40 years. He had a passion for gardening and enjoyed playing snooker every Saturday—first at Springhill Working Men’s Club and later at Clayton Le Moors Conservative Club. He and Enid cherished their short family holidays, creating many fond memories together. James also appreciated a good beer, especially real ale—always insisting, in his own words, that “the stronger, the better!” He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him. Donations in lieu of flowers are being gratefully received on behalf of St James Church Altham. To make a donation, please click the blue donate button at the bottom of this page. A donation box will also be available at the service. Please feel free to leave a message for James’s online memorial book by completing the form below.

Donald Pat Eddleston family xx
Sadly missed. Happy memories xxx

Sandra Hayes
Sincere condolences to the family.

Angela White
Fondest memories of Uncle Jim, he always liked a dance. You carry on dancing in the sky. Beer in hand. RIP.