James M. Messer, age 81, of Messer Road, Morehead, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2007, at the St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead. Born April 13, 1926, in Rowan County, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Wm. and Louada Moore Messer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Aileen Roark, Chlotean Calvert, and Ruth James. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Thompson Messer, whom he wed February 9, 1950; one son and daughter-in-law, Keith and Lorene Messer of Morehead, Kentucky, and one daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Bill Jones of Lincoln University, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by several nieces and one nephew. A U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II, James retired as manager of Allen-s I.G.A. after 18 years of service. He had also owned and operated Messer Grocery in Salt Lick, Kentucky, and was a former employee of Union Wholesale. Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. Friday, June 29, 2007, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Tim Rhodes and the Rev. Charlie Hamm officiating. Burial will follow in the Moore Cemetery with full military rites conducted at the graveside by Morehead American Legion Post No. 126. Pallbearers will be Mindi Brown, Josh Brown, Jackie Thomas, Brad Thomas, Mike Thomas, Raymond Moore, Bill Jones, and Jackie Middleton. Honorary pallbearers will be crew members of U.S.S. Tatum APD 81. Visitation is after 6 p.m. Thursday, June 28, 2007, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals. Visitation: Thursday, June 28, 2007, after 6 p.m. Funeral: Friday, June 29, 2007, at 1 p.m. Interment: Moore Cemetery