James Oliver “Jim” Dennis, age 88, of Addison, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital of Jackson.
Jim was born on April 6, 1937, in Wright Township, Hillsdale County, to Don and Marvel (Perkins) Dennis. He graduated from Addison High School and went on to attend the University of Michigan Technical College. Following his education, Jim proudly served in the United States Air Force for eight years.
On October 28, 1961, Jim married Lila Kay Babcock in Denver, Colorado. Together they raised three daughters and shared over 64 years of marriage. Jim worked as a self-employed carpenter until his retirement in 1999. When he wasn’t working, Jim found joy in spending time outdoors. He loved fishing, family trips to the lake, tending to his garden and raising animals on their piece of heaven. Jim also enjoyed spending time with friends at the Addison Senior Center. His greatest happiness came from his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Jim leaves his loving wife, Lila, and their three daughters, Holly Anne Biggerstaff Pieri, Heidi Kay (Steve) Ash, and Hayley Sue Trowbridge. He enjoyed his five grandchildren, Ashley (Tony) Frierdich, Ariel (Tyler) Biggerstaff, Casey (Kristina) Ash, Kyle (Chrissy) Ash, Isiah (Ashlee) Trowbridge and seven great-grandchildren, June, Otto, Hazel, Eloise, Kendal, Carter and Lorraine. Jim is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Betsy and Sandra.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Don and Joe; sister, Patricia Trine; brother-in-law, Richard Trine; and two sons-in-law, Emery Biggerstaff and Michael Pieri.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to benefit the Addison Senior Center. Friends can express sympathies to the family online by visiting the tribute wall at www.brownvanhemert.com. Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Brown-Van Hemert Funeral Home, Addison.