Msgt (Ret) James W. (Sugar Bear) Porter

MSgt (Ret) James W. (Sugar Bear) Porter, 84, of Gastonia, NC, passed away, Sunday, November 22, 2020 at Belaire Health Care Center, Gastonia.

He was born March 3, 1936 in Mecklenburg Co, NC, son of the late Clarence Porter and Ruth Ballard Porter.

James was a veteran of the US Air Force and the NC Air National Guard with over 32 years of service, where he served as a Crew Chief on the Flight Line, performing Crew Chief duties on the F51D Mustang, F-86A Sabrejet, C-119C Flying Boxcar, C-121 Constellation, C-124 Globemaster and the C-130B Hercules.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sisters, Betty McKnight, Nan Johnson and Christine Tench; and twin-sister, Ruby Elliott.

James is survived by his wife of 60 years, Veral Moore Porter; son, David Porter; daughter, Cyndy Porter Rudd; and grandchildren, Sarabeth Kapusta, Chelsea Roach, Joy McMasters and David Rudd.

A private graveside service to he held for immediate family due to COVID-19. Please no flowers, just prayers.

Mr. and Mrs. Porter would have celebrated their 60 ^th anniversary on November 27.  This is the poem that Mrs. Porter wrote to him, "After 60 years of marriage, I have this to say….."I love you", has been said many times before, but for all the times it's been said, no one has meant it more. Now you now I love you. You're the one I adore. You know that I am in love with you… and I will love you ever more! Your wife, Veral."

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, Gastonia.

Condolences may be made online at www.greenefuneral.com