Jorris, James George 1890-1943

JORRIS, WILLIAMS, STAFFANOU

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 5/4/2010 at 08:27:06

The Grinnell Herald-Register (Grinnell, Iowa) Feb. 15,1943

FUNERAL SERVICES FOR JAMES JORRIS ARE HELD FRIDAY

James George Jorris, son of James and Marie Jorris, was born in Corinth, Greece, January 5, 1890. In Corinth he received his early education, later going to Athens for his High School work.

In 1908, at the age of 18, he came to America to make his home, becoming a citizen of the United States only a few years after his arrival. He stopped for a time in Scranton, Pa., where he became acquainted with the one who was later to be associated with him as a partner in business in Grinnell. From Scranton he removed to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he remained for about two years. Then he came to Grinnell, where in 1913 he entered into partnership with Pete Staffanou; and together they established a business in Candyland, a business relationship which for 30 years has been most cordial and thriving.

On March 30, 1931, Mr. Jorris was united in marriage to Miss Lois Williams. To this union one child was born, James Junior, named for his father. In 1936 Mr. Jorris became a member of the Methodist church of Grinnell and remained a member until his death.

Mr. Jorris was a veteran of the World War, having belonged to the Casual Detachment 39th, 163rd Depot Brigade, stationed at Little Rock, Ark. Later he was sent overseas and served for a time with the American Armies in France. As a veteran of the World War he became a member of the American Legion and was also a member of the Masonic Lodge.

Mr. Jorris was a splendid man; attentive to and diligent in his business, a hard worker, and cooperative as a partner. He was easy to meet, for he met you with a smile and friendly greeting. As a result of his kindly nature he made a host of friends. He was usually the first one to greet you as you entered Candyland. Regular patrons of the store will long remember his friendly greetings.

He was quiet and unassuming; he did not care for "show." When there was help needed for any worthy project and contributions were being made by the business men, he could be counted upon as ready and willing to help; but usually he added, "Keep it quiet; don't say anything," not wishing to announce his gifts and his help.

He was a splendid husband and a fine father. He loved his home and the dear ones in his home and was devoted to them. Every hour that he could spend away from his place of business he tried to spend in his home. His wife and small son, James Junior, are left to sorrow in his passing. A sister, Marie, and a nephew, William, both of Athens, Greece, also survive. And a great host of friends, who will greatly miss him join in extending sympathy to the sorrowing family.

Largely attended funeral services conducted by Rev. C.D. Loose were held from the Methodist church Friday afternoon. Music was supplied by a male quartet, from the college and the services at the grave in Hazelwood cemetery were in charge of the American Legion.

Pallbearers were George Schlue, Charles Manly, Don Cunningham, A.B. Hamilton, Harry Yeager and Fred Whittaker. Dr. P.E. Somers, R.F. Nuckolis, Charles Safris and three out of town friends were honorary pallbearers.

Mrs. Irving Boettger and Mrs. John Peters, assisted by the Candyland staff, were in charge of the numerous and beautiful floral offerings.

Many window shades in the business district were drawn during the hour of the funeral.