James Michael Pride

James Michael Pride
December 27, 1978-November 30, 2012

James, 33, was reunited with his father, James Rolland, and first born son, Gunner Owen, on November 30, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Brandi, his son Rowdy Gunner (4) and daughter Endee Rogue (2); his mother Deirdre, sisters Kim and Tricia, aunts Denise Davies and Patricia Sinclair, uncle William Pride, and step-grandmother Marge, nephew Keith and niece Tatiana; in-laws Jay and Ann Phelps, Betty Kanady, Ryan Davis, Joni and Jared Salisbury, Whitney and Brady Summers, Scott and Christin Phelps, Jason and Maribel Phelps, Joshua and Stacey Phelps, Ryan Phelps, Katie and Ross Riedl and nieces/nephews Lilly, Luci, Andrew, Lola, Konnor, Harley, Knoxx, Liz, Lexi, Madison, Kalem, Brylan, Mia, Owen and Alex. James was raised in Bakersfield, California and was a 1997 graduate of Highland High School. James will be missed by his many friends he made during his school years, as a former employee at the Crystal Palace, and most recently, as a hardworking employee for Nestle Inc. James was a devoted family member and would always make time to help with any of their concerns; from working on vehicles to offering support and advice. He was equally a dedicated friend that will be cherished and unforgotten. His sense of humor, plethora of knowledge, and hugs will most certainly be missed. James loved to work on vehicles and applied that passion early in life by working for Kings Muffler, Tec Services, and Howell Automotive. He owned many old cars throughout his life but his most current love was his Chevy Apache. James was also a motorcycle enthusiast. He began riding at the age of 10 and received his first bike when he turned 13. James would act like a kid on Christmas morning when he made plans to go on a motorcycle ride with his friends! A few of his favorite rides were Toys for Tots, Nate Lynch Memorial Ride, and his trip to Laguna Seca. James was married to Brandi, the love of his life, on March 16, 2007. They made each other laugh every day and were blessed with the opportunity to raise two of their three children. James loved his children more than anything in this world and showed them every day. He spent countless hours playing cars and trains with his “Baby boy” and dolls and dress-up with his “Princess”. He was known to sing along with the theme songs of many kids shows when they came on. Nothing brought him greater joy than being called “Daddy”. James was a charitable man and would give the clothes off his back to a person in need. He became an advocate for Autism Awareness when his son was diagnosed in 2011. We will cherish the memories we made with James but know that he lives on through his children. Memorial services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on Saturday, December 8, 2012 beginning at 10am, located at 5600 Panorama Drive, Bakersfield, CA. 93306. Viewing will be held at 9am. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to autismspeaks.org. James you will always be in our hearts.