James (Jim) E. Elsbury

James "Jim" Elsbury, 84, of Danville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. He was born in Mooresville to the late John and Myrtle (Hughes) Elsbury. Jim was raised in Brownsburg and Indianapolis, graduating from Pike High School, with the Class of 1961. While a junior, he met his future wife of 55 years, Glenda Carol Harvey on a blind date. They were married March 16, 1963.

Surviving are his children, Denise (Tim) Tahara of Elkhart, IN, David (Amy) Elsbury of McCordsville, IN, grandchildren, Ryan (Katie) Tahara, Kurt (Alexis) Tahara, Luke Elsbury, Jackson Crawford, great grandchildren, Davis, Quinn, Lucy, and Georgia, and his siblings, Bennie Elsbury, Shirley (Tom) Asher, Phyllis (Frank) Moeller, John Paul (Sheron) Elsbury. Jim was preceded in death by his wife and a son, Darren.

Jim’s life was marked with hard work, service, lasting personal connections, and strong devotion to family. He first experienced hard work as a child on a working dairy farm. He was a ten year 4-H member, Jr. Leader, and a member of Future Farmers of America (FFA). Upon graduation from high school he married the love of his life while working as a mechanic at Caterpillar Tractor. A few years later he joined the US Army and served as a mechanic during the Vietnam War.  

After honorably discharged from the Army, Jim continued serving his community as a member of the Danville Jaycees and a regular Little League umpire. He also began his extensive career with Public Service Indiana (now Duke Energy) as a journeyman electrician that led him in many roles within the company such as residential and large power meterman and linecrew foreman. He always was focused on providing for his family. While working full time at Public Service Indiana, Jim started two successful businesses. He had his own electrical business rewiring homes, installing extra outlets and light fixtures, etc. Additionally, he began a successful home insulating business, blowing insulation in the walls and attics of homes which reduced home heating and cooling bills.  

As his children grew he supported them by taking active leadership roles in clubs and organizations that they participated in. One example is he served on the 4-H Fair Board for Hendricks County as a Director for many years.

After retirement, he worked at Lowes in the Electrical department. In the time Jim worked at Lowes, a number of contractors made connections with him and relied on his electrical expertise. Jim was their go-to guy.  

In his free time Jim played cards with friends, softball, enjoyed watching sports, and was a member of the Hendricks County Antique Tractor and Machinery Association.  

Wherever Jim went he made friends, had fun, and wanted to be helpful.

A visitation for family and friends will be held Saturday, August 8th, from 1:00-4:00 pm, at Bartlett Chapel Church, 4396 E Main St, Avon, Indiana.

Honoring his wishes, he will be cremated and laid to rest beside his beloved wife at Danville South Cemetery.  A private ceremony with military honors will be held.