James Allen Hess

James Allen Hess, 81, of Noblesville, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, at Riverview Health in Noblesville. He was born on December 12, 1944, to James and Anna Hess in Tell City, Indiana.

Jim was one of seven siblings growing up in Tell City, where his nickname was “Pete.” He attended Tell City High School, where he played trombone in the marching band and graduated in 1963. He proudly served in the United States Air Force as an Air Policeman in the Philippines and California. He later graduated from Indiana State University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Studies.

Jim worked for the Veterans Administration as a Construction Analyst, where he met his wife, Lorna. They married in 1974 and shared many happy years together.

Quiet and laid-back by nature, Jim enjoyed tending his garden, planting trees, taking walks, playing guitar, and bird watching. He raised chickens, ducks, geese, dogs, and cats, and he loved working with his hands. He built many things: his own barn, decks, fences, bookcases, chairs, and tables.

Jim and Lorna enjoyed lots of activities together like hiking, working in their garden, clog dancing, attending Bluegrass festivals, watching movies, and the Noblesville Historic Home Tour. Jim loved to cook, and he especially enjoyed reading big historical biographies. He also helped coach children’s soccer and basketball at Durbin Elementary.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Marianne Hess; and sons, Michael Hess and Nicholas Hess.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Lorna L. Hess.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the Humane Society for Hamilton County, 10501 Hague Road, Fishers, IN 46038 (www.hamiltonhumane.com).

Condolences: www.randallroberts.com