James Arthur Osborne, 73, of Beattyville, Kentucky went home to be with his savior on December 9th, 2025. James was born in Oneida, Kentucky on July 6th, 1952 to Ervie and Martha Osborne. He was the second of five boys. He graduated from Lee County High School in 1971, the same year he also married his sweetheart, Shirley Shouse. After his mother’s death, James and Shirley lovingly became the caretakers of his three younger brothers. In 1983, they celebrated the birth of their first and only child, Priscilla. James held many jobs in his life: store owner, logger, factory worker, farmer, and railroad employee. He worked for CSX Railroad for 35 years. His job afforded him the opportunity to travel, but he always was happiest at home. James loved to be outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and tending a large garden every year. In his later years, he also took great enjoyment from caring for his cattle.
One of the greatest joys in his life was spending time with his grandchildren. He loved making them laugh and seeing them perform in different activities. He never wanted to miss a moment with them. James was a member of Pine Crest First Church of God for many years. He served on the board at the church and loved to help with building repairs and maintenance. He always enjoyed reading the Bible and spent many hours praying for family and friends. After coming to Christ in his 30s, James was a faithful member of the local church and was always excited to see others come to know the Lord.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Martha and Ervie Osborne and his brothers, Jeffery and Timothy Osborne. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Shirley Osborne (Shouse), his daughter, Priscilla Johnson, his son-in-law, Kurtis Johnson, his grandchildren Hazel Fern, Mabelle Ann, and Maxwell James Dean, and his brothers Ervie Junior (Junie) and Roger Osborne.
Services for James held at Newman’s Funeral Home in Beattyville, Kentucky on December 13th. James was buried on his beloved farm at the Day/McIntosh Cemetery immediately following the service. Newnam in charge of arrangements.
