Benjamin Michael "Ben" James, 31, of Marion, passed away Sunday, May 28, 2017. He was born in Dunn, North Carolina on October 15, 1985, the son of the late Cecil James and Becky Owens. Ben graduated from Marion High School as a member of the Class of 2003. A sweet and caring person, Ben never met a stranger and always had a smile for everyone. He loved spending time with his friends and enjoyed all USC Gamecocks sports. He was very family oriented and stayed in touch with each of his family members.

Ben was predeceased by his father, Cecil James.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Rebecca Brackman (Buck) Owens of Mullins; a brother, Daniel Alexander James of Marion; a stepbrother, Chad (Kim) Owens of Marion; five sisters, Leslee Christine Culpeper of Mullins, Tracy James of Marion, Celeste James of Charleston, Kelly Thorvalson of Charleston, and Brandy Wyndham of Georgetown; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The family will receive friends from 2:30 until 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at Meares Funeral Home in Mullins. A graveside service will follow at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Cedardale Cemetery in Mullins.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.