James Monroe Porter

In the early 1950s at the end of the Korean war James entered the Army, and served at Fort Dix and Fort Belvoir as part of the 91st Engineering Division. On his discharge he moved to California to attend the University of California, Berkley where he earned a degree in Social Welfare. During his time at Berkley he met his wife Edith Ann Walker working at the Skylake Camp near Lake Tahoe. They were married in 1957. They had 5 children three who died at a young age.

James retired from the Contra Costa Probation department after 31 years. He served as Institutional Supervisor I and Group Councilor III at the Contra Costa Juvenile Hall. James touched the lives of thousands of disadvantage youth. He was affectionately known as "Grandpa."

After retirement James became active in Rotary International, where he was for many years the secretary of the Martinez chapter. James also enjoyed playing Bocce with a neighborhood team, and was playing well into his 90s.

He liked to travel, and often took "repositioning" Cruises where the ships crossed whole Oceans. Crossing the Pacific, Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean sea. James enjoyed photography and liked to relax playing the Organ. He was also a master gardener.

James is survived by his wife, Edie, daughter Julie, and son Carl along with his daughter-in- law and two grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Frances, and many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of life will be held July 12 2025 at 11:00 at The First Congregational Church of Martinez.

Celebration of Life will be held July 12 at 11:00 am at the First Congregational Church of Martinez

1229 Court Street. Martinez, CA