James D. Huff of Phelps, formerly of Alvin, died Friday, Nov. 9, 2012, at Lillian Kerr Healthcare by Rennes in Phelps. He was 89.

He was born July 9, 1923, in Elton, the son of Nathaniel and Nellie (née Puckett) Huff.

Mr. Huff was unable to enter the military due to health reason. During World War II, he worked with the Civil Service to clean up Pearl Harbor. 

He owned and operated Eversharp from 1956 to 1985. Mr. Huff also invented the valve-seat cutting tool for Briggs and Stratton.

After retiring, he moved to northern Wisconsin. Mr. Huff had a pilot’s license and at one time owned three planes.

In his retirement years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding his Harley-Davidson. Mr. Huff also enjoyed safari hunting trips in Africa.

Mr. Huff was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Beatrice, Lucy and Viola; and five brothers, Elmer, Leonard, Verlon, Odes and Earl.

He is survived by one daughter, Olivia Yanko of Willow Springs, Mo.; two sons, Mark (Sharon) of Wales and Matthew of Phelps; former wife, Sally of Phelps; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchldren; and two sisters-in-law, Noreen Huff of Tampa Bay, Fla., and Ruth Huff of Joplin, Mo.

Private graveside services were held at the Lakeview Cemetery in Alvin.

Weber-Hill Funeral Home of Crandon assisted the family with the arrangements. Online condolences can be made at weberhillfuneralhome.com.