James was born in Cincinnati, Ohio to Betty Himmelhaver on August 14, 1950. He is the beloved husband of Joyce (nee Sterman) Himmelhaver; devoted father of Jimmy Himmelhaver and Alisha Webb; dear brother of William Himmelhaver, Richard Himmelhaver and the late Ronald Himmelhaver.

James was a proud member of the United States Military, serving in the US Navy, and was the Commander and Sergeant of Arms of the American Legion Hugh Watson Post #530 in Green Hills. He also worked for the Winton Woods School District in their maintenance department until his retirement.

A visitation for James will be held on Friday, October 27, 2023 from 11:30 AM until time of funeral service at 1:30 PM at Paul R. Young Funeral Home in Mt. Healthy. Donations in James' memory may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati.