James Earl Batten, age 68, of Rushville, passed away on Tuesday April 5, 2022, at his residence.  He was born on June 26, 1953, the son of the late Raymond Sidney Batten, Sr. and Verna Pegram.

After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the US Army.  He was self employed most of his adult life as a handyman.  He enjoyed fishing, cooking out, karaoke, camping, going to the lake, and bingo.  He also enjoyed listening to music and taking road trips.   It was hard to make James slow down.  He always needed to be busy doing something.  One of his favorite past times was watching wrestling with is best friend, Kimberly Gill.  James had said many times that Kimberly was his hero.

He has left behind to cherish is memories his daughters, Natasha (Bill) Hinesley of Rushville, Amanda Elorza of Indianapolis, and Shannon Lovelace of North Carolina; sons, Joseph Batten of North Carolina and Jonathan Messer of Tennessee; brothers, Raymond Batten and Ronnie Batten; sister Linda Hall of North Carolina; several grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded by a son, Raymond Messer; brother, Steven Batten and a sister, Joyce Lee.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday April 13, 2022 at 1:00 pm at Urban Winkler Funeral Home with Pastor Rob Judd officiating.  Family and friends may gather from 11:00 am until the time of the service.  Burial will follow at Hurst Cemetery in Rush County,