James Willis Ison, 76, of Morehead, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, after an extended illness. He was born on May 23, 1948, in Plummers Landing, Kentucky, to the late James Beldon Ison and Betty Lee Cooper Ison. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, John Lee Ison. James is survived by his wife of 51 years, Deborah Williams Ison, whom he married on June 22, 1974; two sons, James David Ison of Oak Lawn, Illinois, and Jason Lee Ison of Plainfield, Illinois; two sisters, Jean Weber of Anchor, Illinois, and Janet Sanders of Fort Worth, Texas; two grandchildren, Madison Ison and Karlie Ison; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. A U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam Era, he was a member of the American Legion in Joliet, Illinois. James was a technical consultant for CNA Insurance Company in Chicago until his retirement. He loved the outdoors and the beauty of nature. James was known for his great storytelling, his love of jokes, and his enjoyment of recording music on his computer. His memory will forever live on in the lives he touched, and he will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel, with Rev. Nancy C. Gowler officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens with full military honors presented by the Morehead American Legion Post 126. Legion members will also serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351. View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com