Last updated on: August 14, 2025
James Finley Ransone II is the father of actor James Finley Ransone III. His son has starred in popular TV series and films such as The Wire, Generation Kill, and It Chapter Two. But prior to his son’s fame, James Ransone II had already led an impressive life. He was a soldier, a teacher, an entrepreneur, and a devoted family man.
Quick Facts About James Finley Ransone II
| Full Name | James Finley Ransone II |
| Birthdate | 1955 |
| Occupation | Vietnam War Veteran, Land Surveyor, Business Owner, Adjunct Professor |
| Husband/Wife | Joyce Ransone (née Peterson), later married Jamie McPhee |
| Education | N/A |
| Age | 71 years old |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Children | Son: James Finley Ransone III |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Background
Information regarding his childhood is personal. We are aware that his roots had Irish, English, German, Italian, and Swedish descent. This provided a culturally diverse upbringing for him.
He matured in appreciating discipline, industriousness, and service. These influenced his career path and life.
Military Service
James Ransone II served in the United States Army during the war in Vietnam. He was a Green Beret, a member of the U.S. Special Forces. It took strength, ability, and courage to do this job.
His bravery and work earned him respect. His work had a powerful influence on his son. James Ransone III has mentioned how proud he is of the military background of his father.
Life in Baltimore
Following military service, James Ransone II resided in Baltimore, Maryland. It was there that he and his wife, Joyce Ransone (née Peterson), raised their son.
Baltimore also served as the city where James Ransone III grew up before turning to acting. Close relationships were important to the family, and they stood by each other for the tougher times of life.
Marriage and Family
James Ransone II initially married Joyce Ransone. They had a child together — James Finley Ransone III. He later married Jamie McPhee.
He had a lot of concern for his family. Although his career mattered, his life as a father was one of his greatest accomplishments.
Career After the Army
After retiring from the Army, James Ransone II was employed as a land surveyor. He became a master in the profession and then instructed surveying as an adjunct professor.
He also founded his own business venture, A2 Geomatics. This demonstrated his proficiency in technical tasks as well as entrepreneurism. His professional life enabled him to impart useful information to new professionals.
Final Years and Death
In his older age, James Ransone II struggled with cancer. On January 29, 2020, he died at Gilchrist Hospice in Towson, Maryland.
His passing was a loss to his family and friends. But his memory endures through the love ones and the anecdotes they tell.
READ ALSO: James Ransone Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
James Ransone II left behind a very strong legacy. He served his nation with dignity. He constructed a career on ability and commitment. Above all, he raised a son who continues to leave his own stamp on the world.
His life is one of bravery, industriousness, and family devotion. For all those who knew him, he will forever remain in the memories of people as a man of principle.
