James Earl "Slim Jim" Housden, 87, of Symsonia, Kentucky, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Continue Care Hospital of Baptist Health in Paducah, Kentucky.
James was born on April 24, 1938, in McCracken County, Kentucky, to the late Curtis and Noma Lee Smith Housden. He worked as a millwright at GAF Manufacturing / ISP Chemicals in Calvert City, Kentucky, for over three decades. James’ work ethic started early on as he began working alongside his Grandpa Smith on his farm when he was a young boy. He also learned to cook at a young age with firsthand instruction from his great-grandmother, Ma, on days he wasn’t able to help on the farm.
James' dedication to his work was only matched by his devotion to his faith and community. A member of the New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church for over fifty years, James was an integral part of the church's growth and spirit. He took an active role in the church's direction and well-being, serving on the Board of Trustees and playing a pivotal role in church security, ensuring the safety of all those who entered.
James' selflessness was evident through his consistent volunteer work for Meals of Love and Soup for the Soul. Through these programs, James helped to feed and bring warmth to countless individuals in need. He enjoyed the outdoors, whether he was fishing, hunting, raising a large vegetable garden or throwing some meat on the smoker. When he wasn’t volunteering or enjoying the outdoors, you could find him cheering the University of Kentucky Wildcats on during basketball season and the Buffalo Bills during football season.
Those who knew James often described him as creative and handy. He had a knack for fixing things. His hands were rarely still, as he was always involved in a project or lending his assistance where it was needed. From HVAC work, welding, and operating equipment, James was able to do it all. Most importantly, though, James used whatever knowledge and skills he had to always be of service to his family, which is how he showed his love and care for them all.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Janet Myers Housden of Symsonia, Kentucky; three daughters, Sherry Hack of Symsonia, Stephanie Riley (Willie) of Paducah, Kentucky, and Susanne Merry of Symsonia; one son, James Paul Housden (Joy McEwen) of Mt. Vernon, Washington; ten grandchildren, Joshua Hack (Leslie), Jessica Eddington, Jordan Riley, Dillon Housden, Collin Housden, Cameron Merry, Roman Housden, Piper Housden, Marcella Litrenta, and Augie Litrenta; two great grandchildren, Aaron Hack and Justin Hack; and a host of near, dear cousins.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Joe Paul Housden; and his parents, Curtis and Noma Lee Smith Housden.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to any Humane Society of your choice in his honor.
Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at our Milner & Orr Paducah Lone Oak Chapel, 3745 Old US Hwy 45 S, Paducah, KY 42003. Per James’ request, no suits or ties, casual attire only.
A funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at our Milner & Orr Paducah Lone Oak Chapel. Bro. Scott Penick and Bro. Randy McClure officiating.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit James’ Tribute Wall at www.filbeckandcann.com
