John Edward James

John Edward James was born and raised in McIntosh. He was born to the parentage of the late Adley, Sr. and Maranda Hill James. Departing this life Monday, March 15, 2021 in Spring, Texas, he was 83 years of age.

Entering the U.S. Army at an early age, John had a very successful and lifelong career in the military, which he enjoyed very much. He met his beloved wife in Berlin, Germany, where he was stationed. After military retirement, he joined Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms in Houston, Texas, welcoming the change and making many friends. Following his final retirement, he enjoyed spending time in the country, church, traveling, and playing guitar.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Adley James Jr. and Christopher James; two brothers-in-law, James Noble Reed and Hans van Herwaarden; father-in-law, Cornelius van Herwaarden; mother-in-law, Christina Laheij; and his first spouse, Gladys Weaver James.

John leaves to cherish his memories a devoted, loving wife, Madeleine James of Spring, Texas; his five children from his first marriage, Vincent (Rose) James of Austin, Texas, Beryl (Willie) James of Sunflower, Joni (James) Pugh of Orlando, Fla., Sonja James of Colorado Springs, Colo., and John (Karen) James Jr. of Temple, Texas; four sisters, Ola (Charles) Reed of McIntosh, Geraldine (James) Reed of Cortelyou, Shelia (Kenneth) Pugh of Mobile and Tracy Pugh of Evans, Ga.; two brothers, Steve James of Mobile and Tony (Angie) James of McIntosh; three sisters-in-law, Thea van Herwaarden of Netherlands, Desiree Andriessen of New Zealand and Annette Grant of Mt. Vernon; with a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: St. Paul’s Baptist Church, P.O. Box 123, McIntosh, AL 36553 or Mobile SPCA, 620 Zeigler Circle West, Mobile, AL 36608, (251) 633-3531.

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