Paul Darwyn James

Paul Darwyn James, age 82, of Vandalia, MO passed away at 7:35 p.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Hannibal Regional Hospital.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at the Waters Funeral Home. Bro. Kenny Haddock will officiate. Burial will be at a later date in the Vandalia Cemetery

Visitation celebrating Paul's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service Tuesday at the Waters Funeral Home.

Paul was born on February 9, 1943, in Vandalia, MO the son of Paul L. and Dorothy (Hoover) James.

Paul is survived by his sister, Karen Westenhaver of Columbia, MO; his niece, Michele Forrest (Gerald) of St. Louis, MO; his nephew, Matt Westenhaver (Heather) of Columbia, MO; his great-niece, Lena; and his great-nephew, Wayne.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Paul graduated from Van-Far High School in 1961 and went on to further his education at Southwest Missouri State earning his bachelor's degree in education. Paul started out his working career as a teacher in the Dixon School District. He later changed his career and worked as a Barge Captain at Quincy Soybean where he worked for several years before retirement.

Darwyn was known for his engaging spirit and diverse interests, which included playing chess, snow skiing, avid swimming, and trading within the stock market. He especially cherished his morning trips to Dairy Queen, where he enjoyed both the treats and the interactions with friends and neighbors. Mr. James was a Baptist by faith.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Vandalia Branch Library, in care of Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family on Paul's memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com