Mother Shirley F. James

On Tuesday, January 26, 2021, Shirley Felicia James, entered into eternal rest at the Riverside Regional Medical Center at the age of 83 years old.

Shirley was born on November 19, 1937 to the late Leslie and Annie C. Taylor. She was educated in the Newport News Public School System and graduated for Carver High School in 1958. Shirley was a dedicated hard worker, as she worked various job and retired from the Newport News Shipbuilding.

Shirley had a passion for singing as she was known for her beautiful melodic soprano voice. She served for many years in the St. John’s COGIC Senior Choir, Mother’s Board, she was a part of the Christian Women Council, Daughters of Destiny, and was one of the original Taylor Singers. She was known for her warm and comforting spirit, her beautiful smile, her soft tender voice, and warm hugs. 

Being in her presence was such a blessing as she would talk about her love for Christ and how good God was to her. She was quiet yet powerful. She was the Matriarch of the Taylor-James family and would take the time to pray you through any situation. Whatever her hands would find to do; she did it with grace and excellence that the Kingdom of God was edified.

She leaves to cherish and celebrate her loving memories two Daughters Marguerite (Willie) Dawes of Hampton; Anita James of Newport News; two Sons Carl (Linetta) James of Hampton; Anthony (Malika) James of Newport News; sixteen grandchildren; thirty-six great-grandchildren; ten great-great grandchildren. One sister Gwendolyn Odum of Newport News; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents Leslie and Annie C. Taylor. Four daughters Sheila Banks, Ramona Wilson, Sandra James, and Wendella James, one grandson Devan Hughes; and two great-grandchildren Demetrius and Jasmine Bailey.

All who knew and loved her dearly will never forget her undying love. She will truly be missed.

Viewing for Mother James will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Thursday, February 4, 2021 at C.C. Carter Funeral Home, Inc. 

Services are scheduled for noon Friday, February 5, 2021 at New Hope Baptist Church, 1415 Big Bethel Road, Hampton, Virginia 23666.

Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens.

It is the desire of the James family that you would keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Mother Shirley F. James has entrusted her final care to the Staff of C.C. Carter Funeral Home, Inc. 

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