James Arthur Alston Jr.

Mr. James Arthur Alston Jr "Big Daddy" transitioned peacefully at Trish & Toni House by way of Saginaw, Michigan, on Saturday, January 20th. He was 71 years of age.

James is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mrs. Malinda (Dancy) Alston; his two lovely daughters Angela Evans and Kimberly (Jeffrey) Bulls; his brothers, Melford (Glenda) Alston, Darrell (Annett) Alston & Tony Alston; his grandchildren, Jasmin Brookins, Jordan James Bulls, Simone Evans, Deshawn Evans, Deja Evans & Brian Evans; great-grands, Nyla Evans, AJ Evans, Amari Evans, Ja’siah Evans, A’Mora Belvin, A’Layah Belvin and Kai’Heir James Kelly; a host of nieces and nephews; his godchildren were many, including Traci Murray, Lavalle Holman, Kamesa Sanders, Shanell Williams, Mildred Craighead, Evette Woods, Christina Patman, Patricia Davis, Racquel Simmons, Ceddrea Brown, and many more whom he loved as his own.

He is preceded in death by his father, the great Reverend James Alston Sr, his mother, Marion Alston, brother Joel Alston & his baby sister Gloria Alston. James was born in Richmond, VA, to Reverend James Sr and Marion. After graduation, James served dutifully in the United States Armed Forces (Army). He met his wife, Malinda, post-military, at their shared workplace General Motors/Grey Iron Foundry, and later married in 1971, from which two beautiful children were born (Angela, Kimberly).

His loved ones remember him as a family man most of all. Protecting his loved ones was job number one and he did it without hesitation. He was an avid fisherman and a jack of all trades. He could literally fix anything, as he was very intelligent.

James was a gentle giant; a man who would tell it like it is, unapologetically so. He loved his motorcycles, boats, cars, and other assorted toys he owned. He kept and cherished them at his leisure.

As per James’ wishes, cremation has taken place, so there will be no services of any kind. His daughter, Kimberly, will spread his ashes at a later date up north where he spent peaceful times fishing and boating. One of his “secret” spots will be chosen at that time.

The family of James Alston Jr would like to thank Marty and Kristen from Compass Hospice for all of their special care during his transition. Special thanks to his granddaughter Jasmin whom he helped raise directly and who was the “apple of his eye.” She never left his side during his illness and we’re certain he loved every moment. Huge thanks to Trish & Toni House for your accommodation and caregiving. Additional thanks to Ivan E. Phillips and Lorane Dorsey at Paradise Funeral Chapel for your seamless assistance in carrying out our wishes.

“No more pain, no more suffering” was his ultimate wish. He is finally at peace and the family is grateful to everyone who loved on him and us and continues to do so. Keep us all in prayer and may God bless you abundantly.