Blanche D. James, 69, of New Castle passed away in the same home where she was born the night of April 24, 2016 at her residence after her courageous battle with melanoma. Born on June 15, 1946 in New Castle, she was a daughter of Samuel and Florence Gilson Stewart. Blanche was preceded in death by her first husband, William Rickard. Then she subsequently married Harold "Jesse" James, who also preceded her in death. She was a 1964 graduate of Shenango High School. She was employed as a barmaid at the Eagles Club/Johnson Club. She was active as a captain for "Cruising For the Colors" Relay for Life Team. Blanche enjoyed going to casinos, traveling and cruising. Her greatest joy came from watching her children and grandchildren in their many activities. Mrs. James is survived by two daughters, Marsha (Scott) Doutt and Billie Jo (Jerry) Graham; two brothers, Elmer Stewart and Clyde Stewart; one sister, Florence Peterson; and three grandchildren, Kala Wright, Amanda Graham and Scott Doutt, Jr.; all of New Castle. Along with her parents and two husbands, she is preceded in death by one son, William Robert Rickard; one sister, Dorothy Hollencamp; and three brothers, Robert, Arthur and Samuel Stewart. Visitation will be 5-8 P.M. Friday at R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road. The funeral will be immediately after visitation at 8:00 p.m. with Rev. Chuck Fombelle of Calvary Independent Church officiating. Online condolences may be offered at www.cunninghamfh.com.