In February 1915 the Parish magazine reported his death. “Not a native of Staindrop, he had made many friends during the time he was in service at Raby; their sorrow at his loss will be mingled with pride, that one so dear to them has given his life -though not on the battlefield - for the protection of his country.”
In July 1913 James was engaged as second footman at Raby Castle. He joined the Inniskilling Fusiliers in August, 1914 from Raby Castle. James died in Dublin hospital from appendicitis on 7th January, 1915 during the period of training & is buried at Grangegorman Military Cemetery.