THE PREAMBLE

Today is a celebration of the life of Washington “Shorty” James, Jr. As we reflect on his life, we must remember that God makes no mistakes. Romans 1:10 states, “In my prayers at all times, and I pray that now at last by God’s will the way may be opened for me to come to you.” Shorty was born in Lafayette, Alabama, to his parents Washington James, Sr. and Sarah Bailey James (preceded in death) on November 4, 1949, and slumbered on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

HIS CHILDHOOD

Shorty moved from Lafayette, Alabama, with his parents, Washington and Sarah James, along with his siblings, Virginia Harris, Ozella Simmons, and Larry James (all preceded in death), to Jacksonville, Florida. In addition, several uncles and aunts also moved to Jacksonville. They left many relatives and property in Lafayette; however, the family decided to move to Jacksonville, Florida for a better life.

HIS FAMILY

When Shorty was 18, he met his future wife, Rosemary Andrews. They were married and had two children, Mark LaShon and Mozzarella La-Vonne James. They were the love of his life, along with his four grandchildren, Trinity, Zachary, Saniyah, and Sydney James.

ADULT YEARS

As a child, Shorty loved working with his hands. He enjoyed putting items together and fixing things, which led him to the carpentry field as an adult. He worked for Gilbert Sykes Construction Company for 25-plus years. They did major construction projects on houses and buildings, including St. Vincent’s Hospital Emergency Room. Ironically, he passed at the same hospital he helped renovate. After Shorty retired from Construction, he kept busy with his hands-on projects for family and friends.

HE LEAVES

Rosemary James (ex-wife and caregiver); children, Mark (Charlene) and Mozzarella James; grandchildren, Trinity, Zachary, Saniyah, and Sydney James; nephews and nieces, Larry James, Jr., Kimberly Harris, Phyllis Hunt (preceded in death), Jonathon James, Sandra Harris, Michael Porter, Robert, Kenya, Veronica Simmons and King W. Brookins (preceded in death); a half sister Margaret Porter (preceded in death); and a host of great nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Southside is serving the Family.