James A. Blaine
James Allen Blaine, 96, went to be with the Lord on October 18, 2025. His beloved wife of 70 years, Wandalou, passed away in 2021. As devoted parents, they gave 58 years of care to their oldest son, Warren Roger, who was born with severe cerebral palsy. Warren passed away in 2013.
He has left behind a brother, John W. Blaine of Greenville, SC, a son, Bruce (Patti) Blaine of Rochester, NY, and a daughter Faith (Robert) Willhoft of Churchville, NY. He has three grandchildren—Kathryn (Kate) Blaine, Adrienne Willhoft, and Blaine Willhoft—and two great grandsons.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, James graduated from Marion College (now Indiana Wesleyan University). He went on to earn two master’s degrees—from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, KY, and Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI.
His first loves were Bible teaching and writing. He gave his life to pastoral ministry, faithfully serving eleven Wesleyan and United Methodist churches across South Dakota, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Vermont, and Ontario, Canada. Alongside his pastoral work, he led numerous Bible teaching ministries and was active in his communities. Since many of his churches were small, he supported his family through additional work, including factory and custodial jobs, and especially enjoyed his time as a grocery clerk.
James published two small books, which he saw as part of his legacy. "Pathways to a Closer Walk" (2019) is a Bible study guide and "The Rollout of the Messiah" (2023) is a short treatise on Christ’s coming to earth. A major interest for James, beginning as a young boy, was stamp collecting. He was a life member of the American Philatelic Society, producing two award-winning exhibits. Other interests were gardening and woodworking.
Donations can be made to Western Theological Seminary, Center for Disability and Ministry.
​
​