James Lyman Cheeseman, 78, of Milton, Vermont, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

James was born on January 22, 1948, in Burlington, Vermont, to James Douglas Cheeseman and Irene Peters Cheeseman. He spent much of his childhood in Burlington's Old North End, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

James proudly served four years in the United States Army, spending much of his service in Germany and France before returning home. On May 22, 1970, he married the love of his life, Carol Benoit Cheeseman. They shared 45 wonderful years together, building a life centered around love and family.

Early in his career, James worked for Spillane's and Lacey's before starting his own flooring business. After 50 years of hard work and dedication, he retired. His strong work ethic and determination were qualities admired by everyone who knew him.

James enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, and fast cars. He especially loved taking drives through the Old North End neighborhoods where he grew up and traveling through the Champlain Islands. His family never knew where they might end up, but the journey was always an adventure.

Above all else, James loved his family. His happiest moments were spent at family barbecues, gathering around the holidays, and enjoying time with the grandchildren he adored. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his legendary stories from his youth, his unwavering strength, and the deep love he had for his family.

James is survived by his children, Sean Cheeseman of Williston; Shannon LaPierre of Milton; Shane Cheeseman and his wife, Brenda, of Milton; MaryBeth Naas and her husband, Kyle, of St. Albans; and James Cheeseman of Colchester. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Connor Cheeseman, Alaina Cheeseman, Violet Naas, Oliver Naas, Wyatt Cheeseman, and Owen Cheeseman; his sister, Jane Sadler; his brother, Bruce Cheeseman and his wife, Elenor; his brother, Douglas Cheeseman and his wife, Priscilla; and several nieces and nephews.

James was predeceased by his loving wife, Carol Cheeseman; his sisters, Mary Demag, Norma Belval, and Margarett Davis; and his parents, James and Irene Cheeseman.

The family would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to James's care team, Claire Leupp and Chantel Peters of UVM Home Health, and Maddie Giroux of Age Well Vermont. Thank you for the support, compassion, and love you showed our father. Our family will always be grateful for the care you provided.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, August 24, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at LaVigne Funeral Home, 132 Main St., Winooski. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 28, at 9:00 am at Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 2 Cherry St., with a graveside service to follow at Lakeview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Autism Speaks.