Arvia Bell James, 82, of Carmi

Arvia Bell James, 82, of Carmi, Illinois passed away on Friday, August 22, 2025 at home surrounded by her family. She was born on Thursday, June 17, 1943, in Burkesville, Kentucky, a daughter of James and Ella (Vincent) Sheckles. On December 17, 1959 Arvia married Julius Harley James at Concord Methodist Church in Emma, Illinois and together they have shared over 65 years of marriage. She was retired having worked at Ainsbrook Sewing Factory. Arvia was a woman of faith who cared greatly for her family and loved spending time with them. She liked quilt, sew and cook and enjoyed sharing the things she made with family and friends. In addition to her husband Julius James of Carmi, Arvia is survives by her daughter Loretta (Larry) Knight of Carmi and siblings, Paula Madomma, Freda Mercer, Regina Holman and Terry (Debbie) Sheckles, along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two infant daughters, Angela Elaine and Julie Ann and siblings, Jim, Jack, Janet, Geneva, and Larry. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 in the chapel at Roberts and Cook Funeral Service, 101 Edgewood Lane, Carmi, IL with Pastor Kenny Rager officiating. Family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Roberts and Cook Funeral Service has been entrusted with the arrangements