Obituary of James W. Isard

Take your time, don't live to fast. Troubles will come and they will pass. You'll find a woman, you'll find love. Be a simple man, be something you love and understand. James was a simple, honest kind of man who believed if, you had nothing nice to say, don't say it at all. He was unassuming but loved life and made the best of what he had. On Sunday February 13, 2011 James passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at Virtua Hospital in Berlin. Mr. Isard was born in Somers Point and spent the early part of his life there. He attended and graduated from Ocean City High School where he had a natural talent for basketball. He briefly attended William & Mary College in Williamsburg, VA then Kansas State University where his basketball ability made him the athlete of the year. James loved airplanes and wanted to be a pilot, so, he left higher education despite a basketball scholarship to join and faithfully defend his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He had a knack for math and mechanical drawing and served as a Cartographer during his service. However, his natural basketball talent continued to shine through. He played basketball for the USAF. He again, was athlete of the year and a part of the USAF European Championship basketball team. Following the military James returned to Atlantic City where he worked as carpenter and met his love for life Doris Thaylor. Together they made their home in Pleasantville, Florida and Mays Landing, then finally Williamstown. He supported his family by cleaning factories at night and spent 30 years as a drywall installer at Fortunato Drywall in Egg Harbor Twp. At home he enjoyed camping, was an avid motorcycle enthusiast and enjoyed attending air shows. Forget your lust for the rich man's gold, all that you need is in your soul, follow your heart and be satisfied. Mr. Isard is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Doris (nee Thaylor) Isard. He is the father of James & his wife Sandy and Jeff & his wife Kathy Lewis. James is the proud grandfather of Shannon & Kristen Lewis and is also survived by his sister Joyce Massey. Memorial services & inurnment will be held privately.