Samuel Leroy James Jr.

Samuel Leroy James, Jr., affectionately known as Sam, was born on July 22, 1941, the eldest child of Samuel and Thelma James. From an early age, Sam was surrounded by family and deeply influenced by his mother, who instilled in him the importance of caring for others. Sam grew up in Evanston and graduated from Withrow High School. Directly out of high school, he joined the Air Force from 1959 to 1963. In 1963, he married the love of his life and raised 7 wonderful children. He was a devoted husband and dedicated family man. He went on to establish a remarkable career as a Mechanical Engineer, dedicating 16 years at Lodge and Shipley, 15 years at General Electric, and 10 years at Hobart. Known for his strong work ethic, Sam never missed a day and earned respect as a reliable, diligent, and generous colleague. He dedicated his life to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on December 26, 1970. His love for Jehovah shaped the rest of his life. At the age of 31, Sam was appointed as an Elder. He also served as a Regular Pioneer for many years. He poured his time and resources into helping others, joyfully preaching the good news of God's Kingdom and sharing in every form of ministry. Even after suffering a major stroke in 2012, Sam's faith and dedication never wavered. He remained a faithful servant of Jehovah until he peacefully fell asleep in death on September 21, 2025, at the age of 84. Sam will always be remembered for his impeccable sense of style-never without a sharp suit and tie, even at the dentist's office. He loved dancing, cooking, and being surrounded by people. Warm, hospitable, and full of life, Sam was truly the center of every gathering. He had a unique gift for seeing the good in everyone he met, and his kindness touched countless lives. A lifelong friend to many, Samuel cherished his childhood best friend Donald Noble and his cousin Butch Burke who was like a brother. Sam leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Mattie James (née Davis); six children: Mark James (Melissa), Monique James, Myles James (Sherrill), Marla James-May (Anthony), Mica James (Marche'), and Marcel James (Luly); nine grandchildren: Tyler May, Peytin May, Mi'a, James, Malon James, Maria James, Mila James, Jamie Morris (Kimberly), Jarrod Haley (Isabella), and Brooklynn Peace (William); and two great-grandchildren: Enzo Haley and Isabella Catlin. He is also survived by his siblings, Cynthia Wilson and Byron James (Lorraine), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Sr. and Thelma James; his son, Michael James; his brother, Leslie James; and his sister, Geraldine Cromwell. Sam's legacy of faith, generosity, and love for family and friends will continue to inspire all who knew him. The James family extends heartfelt thanks to Walker Funeral Home for their care and support, and to the many caregivers, medical staff, and friends who stood beside Samuel and his family during his final days. Family and friends are cordially invited to gather at 2:00 pm on October 4, 2025 at the Marriott Cincinnati Northeast, 9664 Mason Montgomery Rd., Mason, OH 45050. For the convenience of family and friends, a block of rooms has been reserved at Marriott Cincinnati Northeast, where the service will be held. For those unable to attend in person we welcome you to join us virtually as the memorial service will be live streamed via Zoom. Memorial Service Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7257486089 We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the James family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post." Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the James family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Samuel Leroy James, Jr., please visit our floral store.