James was born in Galgate, the Son of James and Ellen Illingworth, of 22, Chapel Street, Galgate nr Lancaster. He was the middle of three brothers, the others being Richard and William.
In 1911, James was listed in the census as a labourer at a paint works.
He enlisted in Lancaster and joined the 1/4th battalion of the Kings Own.
In September 1917, the 1/4th were part of 164 Brigade 55th Division. From the 20th to the 24th they were in positions supporting an advance around t'Gravenstafel, Ypres. The Battalion suffered many casualties from intense bombardments and on withdrawal on the 24th September had suffered casualties of 37 other ranks killed and 155 wounded, James being one of them.
He died of his wounds at 44 Casualty Clearing Station on 24 September,
James was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. He never married. He is commemorated on the Ellel War memorial.
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