James Howard Avrett

James Howard Avrett

James Howard Avrett, 79, passed away on August 26, 2025, in Fort Pierce, Florida.

Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, James grew up in South Bend, Indiana, where he graduated from Riley High School in 1964. A standout athlete, he was captain of the football team and also competed in wrestling. He went on to attend Western Michigan University on a four-year football scholarship, playing defensive tackle. In 1966, his team won the Mid-American Conference championship. James was also a proud member of the Delta Chi fraternity.

Following college, James built a successful career with Mutual of Omaha, he sold individual and group insurance and was also a financial planner. He and his family made their home in South Bend for 43 years before retiring to Fort Pierce, Florida. In retirement, James enjoyed playing golf and bridge.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Lynne (Clerc) Avrett; sons, Christopher (Lisa) Avrett of Denver, CO, and Bradley (Julie) Avrett of Denver, CO; grandchildren, Addisen Avrett and Maxwell Avrett; sister, Becky Wiseman of South Bend, IN; and brother, Larry Avrett of Mishawaka, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents, James H. Avrett and Maxine Cope Avrett.

Memorial contributions may be made in James’s memory to Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.