On Thursday, May 15th, 2025, James, 75, peacefully passed away surrounded by family.
Though James has departed this earthly life, we find comfort in knowing he has entered into eternal rest with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

The son of Victor Emmanuel and Cheryl (Cornett) Carlson was born on September 10, 1949 in Portland, Oregon.  James began his early years on the West Coast, where some of his family still resides. He traveled the country—often by train—eventually settling in Anchorage, Alaska. Finally, James journeyed to Omaha, Arkansas, to spend his later years surrounded by loving family. His final years were full of life and love from his daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

James had many careers and callings throughout his life, ranging from being a commercial fisherman and lobsterman in Maine to a renowned chef in New York, where he once prepared a meal for the Governor and stayed at the Presidential Hotel. But one of James's greatest passions—and what he was best known for—was his impressive gold mining on his claims in Alaska. He loved the outdoors and classic country music.

James was preceded in death by both parents, Victor Emmanuel and Cheryl Florence (Cornett) Carlson; his loving wife of 35 years, Angeline (Black) Carlson; and two sisters, Judy Cully and Victoria Gail Eakin.

He is survived by his first wife, Kathy Greenhaw of Azalea, Oregon, and their daughter, Angela (Carlson) Sanders of Omaha, Arkansas. James is also survived by four grandchildren: Misty Sanders, Jesse (Paige) Sanders, (Grant) and Ashley (Sanders) Creamer, and Wesley Sanders; five great-grandchildren: Sarah, Leah, Ezra, McKinley, and Kennedy; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Greatly cherished and loved by all.

A burial will be held at New Hope Cemetery on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM.