James Melchers

James Lesemann (Jim) Melchers passed away on May 16, 2021 surrounded by family in the comfort of his home.

He was born and raised in Charleston, SC, a son of the late Mary Coles and St. Julien Alexander Melchers. He graduated from the College of Charleston with a BA in History and the University of South Carolina School of Law.  Jim loved his country and proudly served in the US Army prior to attending law school.

Jim married his wife, Kathleen Kilpatrick Melchers, in 1969, and they moved to Louisiana in 1970.

Jim was a member of the SC and LA bar associations.  The first half of his law career was spent in the oil and gas industry in New Orleans.  The next half was spent in private practice focusing on estate planning and business law.

Jim was active in the community and was a member of Executive Achievers Association, Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, Kenner Business Association and Rotary, and often served as an officer or Board Member. He was a contributing writer to the monthly newspaper, The Kenner Star, for 17 years.

Jim was a brilliant lawyer, but his family and faith were always his first priorities.  Jim was a member of Community Bible Church in Baton Rouge, LA, and he served countless years in local churches as a Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and Bible study leader. Nothing brought him more joy than being with his family.  He was dedicated to always being present and involved in their lives and never missed a sporting event or musical performance. He was well known for his big smile and contagious laugh.  He was a kind and gentle spirited man whose friendly personality put everyone at ease.

Jim is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kathleen Kilpatrick Melchers, and their three children Dr. Courtney Melchers Murphy (Brian) of Baton Rouge, LA; Christine Melchers DeMint (Tommy) of Greenville, SC; and James Coles Melchers (Tiffany) of Houston, TX; and his grandchildren, Patrick and Madeline Murphy, Thomas, James, and Luke DeMint, and Clara and Elise Melchers. He is also survived by two sisters Elizabeth Melchers Howard (Marty) of Marietta, GA and Mary Melchers Millings (Victor) of Charleston, SC, many nieces and nephews, and friend of the family, Elizabeth Jarrell.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Resthaven Gardens of Memory and Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Visitation will resume Thursday May 20, 2021 at 12:00 PM at Community Bible Church located at 8354 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 until the funeral services at 1:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Services of the Capitol Area at 3772 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. 225-334-7494. www.alzbr.org.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.