James Watson Bannister

James Watson Bannister, 90, of James Island, died November 3, 2014. Born in Anderson County, SC, he was the son of the late Joseph and Georgia Bannister and husband to the late Charlotte Bannister. After high school, James joined the United States Navy and served in the Italian and North African Campaigns during World War II. He worked as a civilian firefighter at the Charleston Navy Base and also as the Fire Marshall in the Philippines. Mr. Bannister was a member of the James Island VFW and the Elks Lodge #242. He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia B. Hill and husband Thomas of James Island; daughter-in-law, Eileen O. Bannister of Lane; eight grandchildren, James T. Hill and wife Tiffany, Thomas J. Bannister and wife Hope, Chase R. Hill, Anne Melson and husband Nicholas, Laura H. Bannister, Michael P. Hill and wife Rachel, Katherine S. Bannister and Elizabeth L. Hemsley and husband Daniel. Mr. Bannister is also survived by seven great grandchildren. James was predeceased by his parents, wife, siblings and son, Don K. Bannister. Graveside service will be held Friday, November 7, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. in Holy Cross Cemetery, James Island. The family will receive friends prior to service from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in MCALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, JAMES ISLAND CHAPEL, 347 Folly Road. Expressions of sympathy can be submitted or viewed online at www.mcalister-smith.com.