James Allen Ison

James Allen Ison, age 79, of Trent Ridge, Morehead, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at his residence.

Born July 6, 1947, in Rowan County, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Archie Waldon Ison and Anna Katherine Cox Ison. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Alene Matthews Ison, on March 5, 2010, and a special grandson, James Allen "Bub" Wicker, on July 13, 2021.

James is survived by his two daughters, Susie Wicker (Jim) and Jennifer Childers (Rod Newell), all of Morehead; three grandchildren, Heather Howard (Adam) of Sandy Hook, Emily Wicker of Morehead, and Aleena Wilson of Sandy Hook; and four great-grandchildren, Jake Howard, Audrey Howard, Kyle Howard, and Levi Wicker.

He is also survived by two brothers, Cecil Ison (Bet) and Pastor Arnold Ison (Violet); two sisters, Mary Beair (Donald) and Lillie Bowling, all of Morehead; many nieces and nephews; his beloved Wiener dog, Bailey; and numerous extended family members and friends.

James proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Era. During the Tet Offensive and the attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base, he helped keep aircraft armed and in the air in support of military operations. He retired from Central Light Alloy in Paris, Kentucky, and was formerly employed by A.O. Smith in Mt. Sterling.

He was of the Apostolic faith. James enjoyed beekeeping, gardening, cutting firewood, and collecting guns and knives. Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his family. James will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Pastor Arnold Ison and the Rev. Joseph Ison officiating. Immediately following the service, Morehead American Legion Post 126 will present military honors at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Ison Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be James Bowling, Archie Bowling, Adam Howard, Jake Howard, Jim Wicker, and Rod Newell.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, Kentucky 40351.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com