The Man… Mr. Samuel “ Sam” James was born to the Late Mr. Nathan James and Lucinda James in Chambers County, Alabama on August 20, 1934. He departed this earthly life Sunday, January 1, 2012 at West Georgia Health System in LaGrange, GA. He joined Evening Springs Baptist Church at an early age. Mr. Sam was joined in Holy Matrimony to Mary E. Ferrell on July 16, 1957, and into this union, six children were born. He was a graduate of Lanier High School Class of 1954.
He was preceded in death by Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Nathan James Sr.; Siblings: Nathan James Jr. and Annie Ruth Farrow; Granddaughter: Jessica Hurston James; Great granddaughter Kamryn M. Crutcher
The Legacy … Mr. James leaves to cherish his memory: a loving and devoted wife Mary E James of 55 years; six devoted children, Cynthia Johnson, Sophia James, and Torris Prez James (Lanett, AL); Phyllis (Danny) Hurston (Opelika, AL); Sharon (Christopher) Jackson (Lawrenceville, GA); and Tommasena (Quentin) Huguley (Atlanta, GA); a grandson reared as his son Alton (Robin) Avery (Valley, AL); thirty-three grandchildren; thirty-one great grand children; one goddaughter Deidra (Rev. John) Frederick, Jr. (Valley, AL); one brother Solomon (Katherine) James (Lanett, AL); one aunt Lucille Askew (Lanett, AL); one sister–in-law Christine Collins (Lanett, AL); two brothers- in- law Larry Ferrell (Pine Mountain, GA) and Phillip (Patricia) Ferrell (Columbus, OH); and an array of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
The Accomplishments… “Sam” was employed with Interstate Valley Telephone Company and was the first black supervisor for many years. He was later employed with Lanett City School System until he retired. He was a regular volunteer at the Lanett Housing Authority assisting with the summer programs and building award-winning Christmas floats that will go down in history. He was known for his mouth-watering sweet potato and peach cobblers. Sam was a mentor to many children in the neighborhood. In his spare time, he spent hours sketching pictures of his grandchildren and other family members, as well as their favorite cartoon characters. One of his most admired paintings is on the nursery wall at the Pilgrim Baptist Church, Lanett, AL.
Interment:
Evening Spring Baptist Church Cemetery
Professional services provided by M W Lee Mortuary Inc. in West Point GA. http://www.mwleemortuary.com
Tributes
Leave a tributeGod has so graciously given me the blessing of seeing another year (2023). Not only me daddy, but all your children are still here and God continues to bless moma with the strength to carry on in your absence.
Just the other day me, Tank, Chris, Quent and some of the kids (Jas, Toot Toot, and Niyere) were reflecting back on how good of a cook you were. (fried Fatback and biscuits to be exact) It's always so good thinking back on the good ole days when you were here with us. Thank you daddy for all the fun memories. I love and miss you so much. Until the next time....❤❤❤❤❤
2012-01-09 08:12:36
Our family would like to offer our deepest sympathy. Losing someone in death is one of the hardest things to endure. Our heavenly father promises to provide comfort for us during this time as we await the time when we will be reunited with our loved ones by means of the resurrection. (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4)
2012-01-13 18:36:06
To Sophia& the James Family, my prayers and thoughts are with you. keep trusting in God an he will see you through this I am just a phone call away if you need to cry stream or just shout. Love you, HHB
2012-01-05 18:29:18
It saddened to learn of Mr. James' homegoing. I have fond memories of working with him at Lanett Central Elementary School. He was a wonderful gentleman. My condolences to the family, especially Tommasena and Cynthia. You are in my prayers!
2012-01-06 16:27:26
To the James Family Mr Sam will be missed such a nice ,caring person and a good friend to my husband Danny.May God comfort you at this time.much love Danny and Winifred Brown and family.
2012-01-05 19:25:02
I am sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Sam. I met him when the Jaycees did the Ms. Chatt pageant at Lanett High School. He was always so kind and helpful. He became a good friend. Then, throughout the years I met most of his immediate family. I care a lot about each of you. I will remember you in my prayers.
2012-01-05 21:32:33
Such a gentle Spirit with a smile on his face regardless... I will always love and admire my Uncle Sam.
2012-01-05 23:10:59
To the family of Mr. James. Our thoughts, love and prayers are with you during your time of loss. Love yall!
2012-01-06 01:26:36
I was so sorry to hear about Mr. Sam's passing. Me and my family prayers are with you all. If there are anything we can do, please don't hesitate to contact us. Love you guys.....Sylvia
2012-01-06 08:46:18
To: Tommasena and the James Family
Mr. Sam will be building Award Winning Floats in Heaven.
2012-01-06 09:41:42
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the James Family on the loss of Mr.Sam I know that this is a difficult time but I would just like to share a comforting thought from the Scriptures that promises that we will see our loved one again according to John 5:28&29& Revealation 21:3-5. What a wonderful time that will be.
2012-01-05 13:46:26
To the Al,Robin,Terrace and the James Family you are in our prayers. May the Lord be your strength during this time.God bless you all. Colandra & Trey
Leave a Tribute
2012-01-05 22:04:54Sam was a very kind and gentle person. We worked together for many years at Lanett High School. He was very dependable and a hard worker. He was well liked by the staff and the students. My sympathy is extended to the family in the physical loss of your love one. You will be in my prayers during this time of bereavement.