In Memoriam –

James Devereaux

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Devereaux on February 2, 2025. He was a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and great great grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Jim was born to Wells and Linnie (McFall) Devereaux, on October 9, 1927 in Brady Township, MI, and died peacefully at home in the care of his family at the age of 97. Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic began early, with his father starting a portable sawmill business in the 1940s. Jim and his two brothers began Devereaux Brothers Saw Mill in Oakley, MI, and in 1966, Jim took that legacy a step further by
purchasing a sawmill in Pewamo, MI, which would become Devereaux Sawmill, Inc., the cornerstone of a family business that would span generations. Over the years, the business inspired Michigan Veneer, Maple Ridge Hardwoods and Oakley Hardwoods. Jim was immensely proud of the company he built and the family that helped it grow.

Known for his sharp wit and dry sense of humor, Jim’s generosity and kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He was a fun-loving, hard-working family man who deeply cherished his family. Jim loved spending winters in Naples, FL, with his beloved wife, Evelyn. He enjoyed tennis, hunting and fishing, particularly taking his family on memorable fishing trips to Alaska and spending countless hours fishing and deer hunting at the family’s Eagle Nest Camp on the Tahquamenon River.

Jim was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Evelyn, in 2012. He is survived by his children: Doug (Rhonda Fullerton), Donna (Jeff) Couch, Bruce (Donna), Cheryl (Randy) Fedewa and Brad (Merrie Lynne Cherry). Jim leaves behind a large, loving family including his grandchildren: Jason Fedewa, Adam Fedewa, Ryan Fedewa, Brandon Devereaux, Craig Devereaux, Amber Smith, Mitchell Fedewa, Abby Bonato, Austin Devereaux, and Devin Devereaux; thirty-three great grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren; sister, Mary Beth Spike; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by grandson Aaron Devereaux; brothers, Donald, Ralph, Robert, William and Phillip and sisters Millie Goodrich and Kathryn Muirhead.

A Memorial Service was at McGeehan Funeral Home, in St. Johns, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to American Heart Association, the Alzheimer’s Association or to a charity of your choice.