James Clayton Obediah (Jim, “Obe”)

James Clayton Obediah (Jim, “Obe”)

Words cannot touch the heaviness in our hearts to announce that James Clayton Obediah (Jim, “Obe”) age 66, began making his journey to the other side of the river, as he expressed it, in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026. Born December 2, 1959, in Brantford On, he was the precious son of Carole Obediah and the late Clayton Obediah. Jim was a strong warrior and brother to Gail and Cher, and was predeceased by his brother Dwayne. He was a solid Uncle to Clint, Clayton (Jo), Tyler (Katee), Samantha and Cher, and great Uncle to Hailey, Niko, Vienna, Katalina, Ava, Juniper and Forrest. He was the dedicated, longtime partner of Deanna (Dee) Powless.

Obe lived his life outdoors and on the water, paddling the Grand River throughout every season, even as it was icing up. His passion for the outdoors lead him to destinations all over Ontario, camping and paddling in remote areas with his buddies. He worked as a Gas Technician for Six Nations Gas, and prior to that carried out maintenance duties at Brantford Native Homes and
Sifton Properties. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.

The Obediah family and Dee will receive visitors for an Open House, to reminisce, share photos and share his adventures at 389 Seneca Road, on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, on Saturday, November 7, from 12 to 6 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held along the Grand River at Chiefswood Park in the spring, with a service in a large tent, an optional paddle, snacks and refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Two Row on the Grand at tworowpay@gmail.com Obe would love for people to embrace the indigenous culture and enjoy paddling the Grand as he did. The family and Dee would like to thank everyone for their kindness, support, and condolences during this difficult time.