Annias James

Annias James departed this life on October 29, 2025 at his home in Scotch Plains, New Jersey. He was born on June 2, 1940 in Sumter County, Alabama to Perry and Pare Lee James.
Annias first arrived in New Jersey in 1962 to visit his sister. He often said that his intention was to head west- however, life had other plans. After several years working in various jobs, Annias secured a position as a kitchen worker for Ciaba-Geigy Pharmaceuticals, eventually advancing to the role of pharmaceutical lab technician. After 35 years of service, he retired from Ciba-Giegy. Not one to stay still for long, he obtained his CDL and drove buses for the Barker Bus Company until his health began to decline.
While in New Jersey, Annias reconnected with and married his childhood friend, Hattie. Together, they settled in Scotch Plains and raised their three sons: Melvin, Terrence, and Reggie.
Annias was a true extrovert who loved talking, laughing, and giving hugs. Devoted to his family and friends, he had a beloved tradition of ringing loved one's doorbells every January 1st– a ritual he claimed ensured prosperity for the household. This was just one of many tangible expressions of love and thoughtfulness Annias shared with the people in his life. He continued this ritual until his illness made it difficult to do so.
As a faithful member of the Fountain Baptist Church, Annias served in numerous ministries -including the Prison Ministry, Aids Ministry, Men's Ministry, and Lott Carey Ministry-with his longest tenure being chairman of the Deacon Ministry.
Annias was preceded in death by his parents Perry and Pare Lee James, sisters Rhoda Hopkins, Mary Nel Watson, and Barbara James.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife Hattie, sons Melvin of North Plainfield, Terrence (Pattiye) of Scotch Plains, and Reginald (Bonita) of Richmond, Virginia.
9 grandchildren: Shalice, Jamar, Jazmin, Ashia, Durell, Briana, Chanel, Terrence, and Alicia.
4 great grandchildren: Cachét, Ronin, Jade, and Richard III.
8 siblings: Willie Ann Polin of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Jeffrey Thomas of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Essie Saunders of Livingston, Alabama; Mary (Jerry) Vick of Summit, New Jersey; Taletha James of Livingston, Alabama; Matthew (Diane) James of Chicago, Illinois; Michael James of Gulf Port, Mississippi; Wanda James of Jacksonville, Florida; and one bonus sister, Annie Hatcher of Plainfield, New Jersey.
And a host of brothers-in-laws, sisters-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.