Longtime Addison Resident James Oliver Dennis Dies at 88

Dennis was a self-employed carpenter who enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with his family.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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James Oliver 'Jim' Dennis, a longtime resident of Addison, Michigan, passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 88. Dennis was born in 1937 and graduated from Addison High School before serving in the U.S. Air Force for eight years. He later worked as a self-employed carpenter until his retirement in 1999. Dennis was known for his love of the outdoors, including fishing, gardening, and raising animals. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lila, their three daughters, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Dennis was a pillar of the Addison community, having lived there for decades and been actively involved in the local senior center. His passing marks the end of an era for the small town, as longtime residents like Dennis who have shaped the community over the years continue to pass on.

The details

After graduating from Addison High School, Dennis went on to attend the University of Michigan Technical College. He then proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for eight years before returning to Addison and working as a self-employed carpenter until his retirement in 1999. In his free time, Dennis enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing, gardening, and raising animals on his property. He was also a regular at the Addison Senior Center, where he spent time with friends.

  • Dennis was born on April 6, 1937, in Wright Township, Hillsdale County.
  • He married Lila Kay Babcock on October 28, 1961, in Denver, Colorado.
  • Dennis passed away on February 19, 2026, at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital in Jackson, Michigan.

The players

James Oliver 'Jim' Dennis

An 88-year-old longtime resident of Addison, Michigan, who worked as a self-employed carpenter and was known for his love of the outdoors.

Lila Kay Babcock

Dennis' wife of 64 years.

Holly Anne Biggerstaff Pieri, Heidi Kay Ash, and Hayley Sue Trowbridge

Dennis' three daughters.

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What they’re saying

“Jim was a beloved member of the Addison community, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

— Betsy, Sister-in-law (wlen.com)

What’s next

A celebration of life for James Oliver Dennis will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to benefit the Addison Senior Center.

The takeaway

Dennis' passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit community of Addison, as longtime residents who have shaped the town over the years continue to pass on. His dedication to his family, love of the outdoors, and involvement in the local senior center made him a beloved figure in the town.