Lynette James

Lynette Diann James, 74, of Pierre, SD, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025. Born on December 28,1950, in Iowa, Lynette’s journey began as the beloved daughter of Leonard and Dorothy (Ohlrichs) Dirks. She grew up in rural LeMars, IA and graduated from LeMars High School in 1969. She attended college at SDSU in Brookings with a degree in Home Economics.

Lynette’s heart found its match in Dennis James, and together they embarked on a lifelong partnership after their wedding on July 14, 1979, in Pierre. They recently celebrated 46 years of marriage. The couple was blessed with two sons, Garrett and Dustin, and found even greater joy in their grandchildren, Delilah, Grayson, and Lincoln.

Lynette worked in various places throughout her life, including Zenith TV in Sioux City; Geddes High School, where she taught Home Economics until being ‘dragged away’ by her husband for being too far from home; Falcon Café in Pierre; Sully Buttes High School as a Home Ec teacher; Vogel Hardware; First National Bank; and finally BankWest, where she happily retired after the job she enjoyed most after 27 years

Beyond her professional life, Lynette was known for her cake decorating talent. She baked and decorated for countless celebrations, bringing sweetness and joy to every occasion. Garrett, Dustin, and their friends never missed the chance to sneak a few extra crumbs along the way. She also enjoyed embroidery and cross-stitch. She loved all animals, especially her dogs. Her adoration for Disney’s Mickey Mouse was more than a hobby; it was a reflection of her playful spirit and her belief in the magic of imagination. She loved her husband dearly, though he often joked he had to compete with Mickey Mouse for her attention. A lifelong Twins fan, she always had the games on and cheered with joy. Those who knew her best will never forget her classic ‘Dirks look,’ that unmistakable blend of love, strength, and a touch of warning, rooted in her strong German heritage.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 5:00pm until 7:00pm, with a prayer service beginning at 6:30pm, at Capitol Heights Baptist Church in Pierre. A celebration of life will take place on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 10:00am also at the church, burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Pierre. The family invites you to join a luncheon at the church following burial services. The family requests that everyone in attendance please wear bright colors, no black, to help make this a celebration of Lynette’s life.

CLICK HERE TO VEIW LYNETTE’S FUNERAL SERVICE

Instead of flowers, the family welcomes donations to PAWS Animal Rescue, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Dakota Chapter, or the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA).