SMG James Claud Latimer

1937 - 2024

A beloved and devoted partner, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, SGM James Claud Latimer, 87, of Midway, Ga., transitioned peacefully to the Lord on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at Landmark Hospital of Savannah, Georgia, with his family by his side.
Affectionately known to close family and friends as "J.C.," he began his life on February 12, 1937, in Anderson, South Carolina, the second child of seven children born to the late John Lewis Latimer and Alverta Mattison Latimer.
At the age of 6, a class assembly was held to honor the black World War II veterans who had returned home. Two of his uncles, dressed in their full military uniforms, were present. It was at this moment that James, inspired by his uncles' service, declared his future as a soldier. At the age of 16, he joined the U.S. military at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, a testament to his early determination and commitment.
He served 29 years in the United States Army, earning his sergeant major stripes before retiring with full honors in 1982.
His bravery and dedication were recognized with the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Metal and other medals of honor. He also served 20 years of civil service at Winn Army Community Hospital at Ft. Stewart, Ga., further demonstrating his commitment to his country.
While in the military, he was married to the late Evelyn C. Glover, with whom he had four children, Stephen R. (Vanessa) of Ames, Iowa; Claudia A. (Chanese) of Rocky Mount, N.C.; the late James Todd and Carmen M. of Hinesville, Ga.
After retirement, he made Hinesville, Georgia, (Liberty County), his home until his passing.
In service to his community, he was an active and devoted original member of "The Eleven Black Men of Liberty County, Inc.", where he served as treasurer for many years. He also served on the Bradwell Institute and Liberty County High Booster clubs.
While living in Hinesville, he met the love of his life, Laura M. Smith. For 44 years, they built and enjoyed a loving relationship, which included two additional children, Joy R. Smith of Atlanta, Ga.; and Jennifer R. Smith of Hinesville, Ga.
Also left to honor and cherish his memory are his five grandchildren, Sonya Bracone, Ariana Latimer and Alexandria Latimer; Delvin Smith and Dejah Smith; two great-granddaughters, Michaela Bracone and Maleia Bracone; five great-grandsons, Ezekiel Smith, Malachi Smith, Tyberius Smith, Braeden Latimer and Jeremiah Latimer-Brown; one sister, Arah Glenn of Anderson, S.C.; one aunt, Edith Pearl Mattison of Anderson, S.C.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He is also preceded in death by his five siblings, Ruth Gambrell, George Latimer, John Henry Latimer, Glenora Winn and Odis Telley.
As a soldier in life, he has fought the good fight, stayed the course and kept the faith!
Visitation will be held Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at The Dorchester Funeral Home, 7842 East Oglethorpe Highway, Midway, GA 31320.
A homegoing celebration will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Wilderness Baptist Church, 6031 East Oglethorpe Highway, Midway, GA 31320 at noon.
The interment will be at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Glennville, GA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to The Eleven Black Men of Liberty County, Inc., at P.O. Box 96, Hinesville, GA 31313; or through Cash App: $Elevenblackmen, in honor of SMG James Claud Latimer.

Coastal Courier
(Hinesville, Ga.)
Thursday, August 8, 2024
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