Willie James (Lansing)

Mr. Willie James, Sr., 91 passed away on March 28, 2020 in his hometown of Lansing, Michigan. Age 91 years. Willie was born to Charlie and Almeta James Jackson in Belzoni, Mississippi, August 25, 1928. He was one of three sons; brothers, Ollie and Otha precede Willie in death.

Willie was married 70 years to the love of his life, Myrtis Lee (Williams) James. Their ceremony was held on April 16, 1949 in Morgan City, Mississippi, on the front porch of his bride’s grandmother’s home. Their union produced ten children. In 1952, Willie traveled to Michigan in search of a better life for his family, he found work in construction. He later sent for his wife and three children, at that time, to join him. He held a side job of hauling trash for many years that he enjoyed and met several people along the way. A welder by trade, he later was employed by Fisher Body for 33 years. He was proud of his gardening skills and loved tinkering with his old cars and trucks. He enjoyed taking his boat and wife fishing at Sleepy Hollow Lake before his health failed. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and could be found at the grill at family gatherings. Willie was a loving husband and great father. He was a quiet man, poised in demeanor. His children are thankful and know they are blessed to have him as their father. He gave great advice, full of wisdom and knowledge. Willie had a caring heart and he will be truly missed by many.

Willie is survived by his sons, Willie Jr., Jesse (Gracie) James and Clyde (Mary) James; daughters, Eula Jenkins, Almeta Foster, Beatrice James, Eileen (Marvin) Patterson and Jacqueline James; 20 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law: Deloris James; adored by many nieces, nephews and friends

Willie was preceded in death by his precious wife, Myrtis Lee James; daughter, Velma (at birth) and son, Clarence James; parents, Charlie and Almeta Jackson James; brothers, Otha James and Ollie James.

The family would like to express special thanks to the Medical Staff at Sparrow Healthcare System, family and friends for their condolences and kind words of encouragement.

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