James A. Gause

James Aubrey “Papa” Gause, 99, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, in Columbus, Georgia. Born on May 22, 1926, in Seminole County, Georgia, he was the son of John Howard Gause and Ida Mae Hodges. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lucy Mandy Gause; his parents; sister Evelyn Gause Hill; brother Henry R. Gause and half-brothers Lester Mathis and Raymond Mathis. He is survived by his children: Jim Gause (Charlene Poole), Billy Gause (Janie Hill), and Lynda Gause Eldridge (Clinton); his 8 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. Their lives are a continuation of the legacy he leaves behind—one marked by resilience, warmth, and enduring love.

A beloved father, veteran, and harmonica player, he lived a long and meaningful life rooted in family, service, and music.

James proudly served his country during World War II as a Private First Class in the U.S. Army. Stationed in Europe during the conflict, he was awarded the Bronze Star for his service—a testament to his courage and dedication. Following his military service, James built a career working mostly in maintenance jobs in various industries, including textiles, LPG and civil service. “Papa” could build or fix anything that was broken. His work ethic and reliability earned him respect among colleagues until his retirement as a maintenance supervisor at Martin Army Hospital, Fort Benning, Georgia

Outside of work and service, James found joy in music. In his younger days, he often joined jam sessions with friends and had an extraordinary gift for playing the harmonica—able to replicate any tune he heard. Remarkably, even at the age of 99, he could still play with clarity and heart.

Family was central to James’s life. He cherished gatherings with loved ones and especially looked forward to the annual Gause reunion held each November in Iron City, Georgia—a tradition that brought generations together in celebration of shared heritage.

A funeral service honoring James’s life will be held on August 27, 2025, at McMullen Funeral Home 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM with the Funeral Service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama, 7020 Moon Rd., Columbus, GA 31909.