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Official Obituary of

James "Jim" B. McGhee

April 28, 1951 ~ January 18, 2026 (age 74) 74 Years Old

James "Jim" McGhee Obituary

James Bryce "Jim" McGhee, age 74, of South Bend, Indiana, was called home to Jesus, January 18, 2026, at Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his family that was close to his heart.

Jim was born on April 28, 1951, in South Bend, Indiana, to James Porter McGhee and Beverly Jean (Brice) McGhee. He was a lifelong resident of the South Bend area, having lived there most of his life.

On May 5, 1973, Jim married the love of his life, Janice (Lange) McGhee at Calvary Baptist, in South Bend Indiana. Together they shared fifty two years of laughter and unwavering devotion. Jim proudly served in law enforcement, working as a police officer at Indiana University police department and New Carlisle Police Department for a combined total of 16 years. He was also an Army veteran, he was active duty from 1971-1975, during this time he was stationed in South Korea from 1974-1975. Later he joined the reserves. While in the Army he took on many different roles. Jim was an MP and a dog handler. After serving for a total of 26 years he retired from the Army National Guard as an E7. He was a member of the American Legion and will be remembered for his dedication to service, strong work ethic, and commitment to his community. He will also be remembered for the deep love he had for his family. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and dad jokes among his many surviving family members.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Janice McGhee; his children, Amanda (Dylan) Caparell of South Bend, Dan (Mary) McGhee of Niles, Michigan, and Jeff (Rhonda) McGhee of South Bend; and eight grandchildren, including Deven (Mia), Aiden, Waylen, Lincoln, and Carly Caparell, Autumn and Gabriel Ramson, and Abbigail McGhee. He is also survived by his sister, Elizabeth Horvath. He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Lilly Caparell.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 12p.m., at Hillcrest Baptist Church, 59220 Bremen Hwy, Mishawaka, IN 46544, with Pastor Jim Ryder officiating. Friends may call two hours prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Southlawn Cemetery. Palmer Funeral Homes — Guisinger Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim's honor may be given to Hillcrest Baptist Church.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.


Services

Visitation
Wednesday
January 28, 2026

10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Hillcrest Baptist Church
59220 Bremen Hwy
Mishawaka, IN 46544

Funeral Service
Wednesday
January 28, 2026

12:00 PM
Hillcrest Baptist Church
59220 Bremen Hwy
Mishawaka, IN 46544

Burial immediately following with Military Honors

Southlawn Cemetery
61430 US 31 South
South Bend, IN 46614

Donations

Hillcrest Baptist Church
59220 Bremen Hwy., Mishawaka IN 46544

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