In Memory
James "Butch" LaMont Wilder
October 02, 1947 ~ October 26, 2026 (age 79)
James Wilder Obituary
A Life of Love, Strength & Generosity
Celebrating the Life of James “Butch” LaMont Wilder
October 02, 1947 – October 26, 2026
James “Butch” LaMont Wilder, 79, of South Bend, Indiana, peacefully departed this life on October 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on October 02, 1947, in South Bend, Indiana, James was the son of John Henry Bownes and Hattie Bell Wilder Baldwin and the grandson of Hestella Beatrice Barnes Wilder and James Willie Roscoe Wilder.
Butch attended Central High School, where he was an All-American athlete, making his mark in football and wrestling. A hardworking and dedicated man, he spent many years working at Uniroyal in South Bend and the City of South Bend Parks Department, retiring from both.
To know Butch was to know a man with a heart of gold. He was sweet, kindhearted, and generous, always willing to lend a helping hand. A true giver, he gave from his heart without ever expecting anything in return. He had a heart big enough to give the world and a backbone just as strong. Above all, he loved his family fiercely.
Butch had a way of finding joy in the simple things. He loved fishing, good music, kung fu, donuts, and chocolate cake. He was also a gifted artist who could draw just about anything, bringing beautiful creations to life with nothing more than a pencil and paper. And then there were his Cadillacs! Butch took great pride in keeping his Cadillac spotless, polished, and shining so bright you could see your reflection in it. These were the little things that made Butch, Butch, and the memories his loved ones will hold close.
Butch was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents; his siblings, Gregory Wilder, Dennis Baldwin, Lea Renee Pritchard, Gregory Bownes, and Darryl Bownes; and his grandson, Jamal Wilder.
He leaves to cherish his memory his seven children: Anthony Wilder, Damon Wilder, Steven Griffin Jr., James Wilder, Alberta Griffin, Cameron Davis, and Ayla Wilder; step children, his beloved nephew and right-hand man, Gene Edward Pritchard Jr.; and his siblings, Myron Wilder, Andre Baldwin (Terry), Claryce House, John A. Baldwin (Alysia), Jeffery Baldwin, Michael Bownes, Melvin Bownes, Gay Frances Neely Bownes, and Joanne Bownes. He also leaves his sister-in-law, Cheryl Wilder, along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the love Butch gave so freely and the memories he leaves behind. His life was a reminder that some of the greatest gifts we can give are kindness, generosity, and love. Though we can no longer see his smile or hear his voice, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Arrangements have been entrusted to www.boydandsonfuneralhome.com where condolences may be shared.
Service Pending
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Added 10/31/2026 1730 GMS
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