James L. Lamb

James Leo Lamb, 82, of Staunton, loving husband to Tesi Grace Kilmartin Lamb, and son of the late William Loftus and Madeline Gwin Lamb, passed away on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Augusta Health Shenandoah Hospice House after an extended illness.

Jim was born on April 11, 1943, in a log house in Seldom Seen, near McDowell in Highland County.

After graduating from Middle River High School in Weyers Cave in 1960, Jim completed a two-year technical program at Woodrow Wilson Technical Vocational School in 1962.

After working for several years in the field of electronics, Jim devoted his time to mission work for the Bahá’í Faith in St. Vincent. He later joined the Peace Corps, serving in Gambia, West Africa, where he applied his skills in refrigeration and electrical services.

Upon returning to Staunton, Jim developed a passion for preserving historic buildings. He founded Iona Restoration Associates, focusing primarily on projects in the Newtown Historic District, where his efforts played a key role in sparking the area’s revitalization.

Jim had a deep love for music, especially folk from the 1950s and '60s, and later, country. He also enjoyed collecting vinyl records. A true handyman, he preferred fixing things over replacing them. Jim had a soft spot for animals, often rescuing cats, he had a love for photography, and he could never resist stopping at a thrift store. He also loved to travel, especially to Australia where he cherished visiting friends.

In addition to his beloved wife of forty-three years he is survived by his brother, William Lamb and his wife, Madelaine; his sister, Frances Fairfield and her husband, Alan; his brother-in-law, Bill Bernhardt; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth Bernhardt.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Monday, May 26, 2025, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton.

Interment will immediately follow at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of the Shenandoah (c/o Augusta Health Foundation, P.O. Box 1000, Fishersville, VA 22939) or The ALS Association (1300 Wilson Blvd. Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209).