James Brands Gaines was born on April 29, 1943 in Wayne, Michigan. He passed away on March 19, 2022 at the age of 78 in Trinity, Florida. James is survived by his two daughters, Tammy Gaines (Anthony Zeppa), Kimberly Lietz (Leo Monroe); two sons, Jeffrey Gaines (Kristin Andrade), Thomas Gaines (Jennifer Gaines); five grandchildren, Amanda Lietz, Tony Lietz, Kyle Gaines, Jeffrey Gaines, Haley Gaines; great-granddaughter, Addyson; and two great-grandsons, Hunter, Myles, and the loving mother of his children, Brenda Gaines. He is preceded in death by his father William Gaines, mother Mary Gaines, and six brothers: Chuck, Bill, Paul, Al, Ray, Joseph, and sister, Ruth.

James was a proud Navy veteran from the Vietnam War era. He enjoyed watching Western movies on TV, collecting Civil War artifacts, family genealogy, blue grass music (including playing the "air" banjo) and also loved a good homecooked meal (especially when he made it himself). He will be dearly missed by all. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that you make a donation to a charity of your choice.