James P. Slater

James P. Slater, 76, was born on January 23, 1947 to the late James P. Slater and Mary Ann (Miller) Slater in Alameda, California. He died on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at Marion Health Hospital. He attended College Park High School in Concord, California and then graduated from Jefferson Township (Eastbrook) High School class of 1965. James continued his education at Indiana University where he got his bachelors and masters degree in education. As part of lifelong learning, James would sit in at Taylor University in a variety of classes. James married the love of his life, LaRea (Lawvere) Slater on June 7, 1969.

James was an 8th grade science teacher for 34 years at Shelbyville Middle School in Shelbyville, Indiana. He would teach special needs all the way to the gifted and talented and everywhere in between, making an impact in everyone’s lives. James was a swim coach at the middle school and Elk Lodge during the summer.

After retirement the couple moved back to LaRea’s hometown, a mile north of Matthews, and made their home on the family farm.

James loved to raise flowers, gardening, and had a passion for his daylilies. He loved bird watching, especially hummingbirds. James was involved in Epworth United Methodist Church, the Matthews Lions Club, Upland Historical Society, the Upland Garden Club, and the Indiana State Teachers Association. He also helped establish the Upland Greenway.

James is survived by his wife, LaRea Slater of Matthews, IN; siblings, Sandy Slater Cooper of Castleberry, FL, Linda Slater Zinser of St. Paul, IN, and Jack Slater of Winterhaven, FL; cousins, Becky Swathwood of Matthews, IN, Ruth (Jim) Botkin of Indianapolis, IN, Dick (Kay) Kibbey of Marion, IN; beloved aunt, Kay Carrol Faye of Media, PA; Special nephew Steve Bartels of Eckerty, Indiana; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

James is preceded in passing by parents; aunt and uncle Doyle and Mary Kibbey

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Jones-Smith Chapel of Armes-Hunt Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 259 North Main Street, Upland, IN 46989. A visitation will be on Friday, February 17, 2023 from 1:00-3:00 P.M. and a service to follow at 3:00 P.M.. A burial will immediately follow the service at Matthews Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made out to Epworth United Methodist Church, 105 W. 8th Street, Matthews, IN 46957 or to Eastbrook High School 560 S. 900 E., Marion, IN 46953 for a Scholastic Scholarship in remembrance of James.