When the time comes to bid this life farewell, we should find comfort in knowing that a loving God will be there with us to guide us to our new home.

https://my.gather.app/remember/james-henry-putty 

James Henry Putty Sr., loving husband and father, passed away peacefully of natural causes on May 28, 2026, at George Washington Hospital in Washington, D.C. He was 85 years old.

Born on March 22, 1941, in Louisa, Virginia, James is the son of John and Molly Putty, of Louisa, VA.

James spent his life bringing joy, encouragement, and music to those around him. He was a devoted father, brother, uncle, friend, and faithful member of the churches and communities he served throughout Virginia.

While James maintained full-time employment in custodial services at Quantico Marine Base, he was most widely known for the gift that defined much of his life - his extraordinary talent as a pianist. Beginning at just six years old, James dedicated himself to music and spent decades playing piano throughout Louisa, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, and surrounding communities. His music uplifted countless churches, choirs, special events, and gatherings. Through every note he played, James shared his faith, joy, and love for others.

Those who knew James will remember his unwavering faith, optimism, joyful spirit, and genuine support of others. He believed deeply in the power of prayer and in God's purpose for every life; always offering a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand. His favorite saying, "God doesn't work backwards, He works forwards," reflected the faith and hope that guided his life and inspired those around him.

James was widowed by the love of his life, Hazel Ernestine Moss Putty, with whom he shared 43 years of marriage until her passing in January 2021. James is survived by his three children, James H. Putty II, twins Jonathan M. Putty (married to Michelle), and Jessica M. Putty; his sister, Mary Blanche; nieces and nephews, Emma, Mary Ann, Etheline, Nathan, Gerald, James, Annie Mae, Robin, Shirley; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hazel Ernestine Moss Putty; half-brother, Johnny Williams Putty; and sister, Emma-Jane Putty Syrkes.

Though James has departed from this earthly life, his testimony of faith, his ministry through music, and the love he shared in Christ will continue to bless generations to come. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him and in the lives he touched through his faithful service to God.

To the Putty family, we at D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.

It is during such times as these that we draw upon our faith, stand upon our scriptures, and rely upon our God. There is no question that in this and through this, God will keep you, comfort you, and sustain you. You and your family are forever in our prayers.