James Dee Morehead, 82, of Sweet Home, Oregon passed away Tuesday, November 20, at his home. He was born in La Grande to Herbert Martin and Margaret Anne (Wimmer) Morehead.

He served in the United States Army from December 3, 1959 and received an Honorable discharge on December 2, 1965. He served in the Airborne Battle Group. During his time with the Army, he received the Parachutist and Expert (Rifle) Badges.

James lived in Starkey until 1943 when the family moved to Meacham for three years. His family settled in Sweet Home in 1946, where James lived the rest of his life.

He worked in the logging industry until 1977, when he became a heavy equipment operator. He retired from Morse Brothers in 2000.

James was a member of the Sweet Home Mennonite Church.

He enjoyed hunting and watching old movies. He loved his family and having coffee with his friends.

James is survived by his children, Gina Long and James Morehead of Sweet Home, Dana Fenley of Springfield, and Patrick Morehead of Sweet Home, and six grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Morehead, in 2012.

A celebration of life will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 1, at Sweet Home Mennonite Church.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling arrangements.