Pastor Emeritus James C. Barnwell

Reverend's Journey
James C. Barnwell, Jr., affectionately known to some as Papa, was a beacon of strength and love, whose
life journey began on October 31, 1946, in the quaint town of Blountstown, Florida. He left this world to
embrace his heavenly home on December 18, 2024, in Solon, Ohio, after a brief illness, leaving a legacy
of faith, generosity, and boundless love.
His early years were shaped by a faith-filled and hard-working environment, as his father Pastor James
Barnwell Sr. (J.C) pastored three churches and owned a dry-cleaning business, while his mother Johnnie
L. Barnwell operated a beauty salon from their home. He was baptized at a young age. His mother
requested his three siblings- Audrey, Joe, and Rama- to call him 'Brother' instead of James. In 1956,
they moved to Cleveland because their father wanted them to have a better education. In 1965, James
graduated from Glenville High School.
At the age of 15, James met his sweetheart, Ruthie at Friendship Baptist Church. Although he did not
know it then, it took his younger brother, Joe-who was also Ruth's best friend-to play matchmaker. Joe
would go back and forth between them, telling each one tall tales that eventually bloomed into their
relationship. In 1968, the union of James and Ruth was sealed in marriage. This love led to the blessing
of two children, Pamela and Keith. However, according to his brother Joe, James wasn't too fond of kids
until Pam and Keith came along. James captured his wife's heart not only with his handsome looks but
also with the way he took care of her and the children in every detail. He showed his love even down to
pumping gas in her car for 56 years.
James made a lasting impact working with esteemed organizations and showing a superior work ethic
throughout his career. In high school, he worked with his dad at I J Fox. After high school, he worked at
Milner Electric for about 4 years and then worked his way up to Supervisor at UPS training semi-truck
drivers. He proudly pulled triple trailers throughout Ohio. The UPS stories were endless and always left
us laughing and convinced that God had His hands on James' life. After 34 years, James retired from
UPS, a testament to his dedication and passion for his work. His passion for safe driving led him to teach
many of his family members to drive. They were all good students, except for his wife, Ruth. He said
she just wouldn't listen.
James continued to work with his dad in ministry as Co-Pastor of the Lily Baptist Church for twenty
years. After his father's passing, James took up the mantle, faithfully serving as pastor for fourteen
years, carrying forward the legacy of his father's leadership. Pastor Emeritus James loved his Lily Baptist
Church family. The legacy continued as Pastor Emeritus James trained his son, Keith, to serve as co-
pastor with him. Eventually, the roles reversed, and with great pride and joy, for the past five years,
Pastor Emeritus James would proudly say that Keith was not only his son but also his pastor.
James was the epitome of a great leader, teacher, and master administrator. He exemplified wisdom,
guidance, and unwavering dedication in all he did, including his involvement with the Baptist Ministers
Council, Progressive District, and a host of church and pastor friends throughout the City of Cleveland.
James' life was a testament to the power of love and the importance of family. His beloved wife of 56
years, Ruthie Mae Barnwell was a constant source of support and love. Together, they nurtured a family
that included their daughter Pamela Y. Barnwell, their son Pastor Keith A. Barnwell (married to Robyn),
and his siblings, Audrey Brandon and Pastor Joe A. Barnwell (married to Pearl). Though his brother Rama
S. Barnwell preceded him in death, his memory continues to be honored.
The light of Papa's life shone brightly through his grandchildren Tiara (Thomas), Jazmine, Kaiya, Amber,
Saniyah, and Kristen, and his great-grandsons Trenten, Travis, and Tru. Each of them carried a spark of
his spirit, a testament to his loving guidance and the joy he found in their achievements and milestones.
His funny jokes and conversations captivated his family including, his sister and brother-in-law, nieces
and nephews, and cousins.
Everybody knows Papa loved to eat. He never turned down a chance to go out to eat, especially to his
favorite place Cracker Barrel. But one of his absolute favorite things to do was to go out for ice cream at
Handel's with his youngest granddaughters, Jazmine, Kaiya, Amber, and Saniyah (lovingly known as the
Core 4). He would say, "Hi girls!! When are we going out for ice cream again?" What great memories
they will cherish forever.
James C. Barnwell, Jr. was the embodiment of a faith-filled life. He was a man who exemplified
generosity, not just through material gifts, but through the giving of his time, his wisdom, and his heart.
He inspired those around him to be better, to reach higher, and to love more deeply. Papa touched the
hearts of all who knew him with his unwavering support, positivity and ability to trust God, no matter
the situation or how it looked. Everybody loved him and he loved everybody!
Today, we celebrate Papa, not with a sense of loss, but with gratefulness to God for the time we were
gifted with such an extraordinary man. His journey may have reached its sunset, but the warmth of his
presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those who loved him.
Let us honor the memory of Pastor Emeritus James C. Barnwell, Jr. by living as he did-with love, with
faith, and with a generosity that knows no bounds. In doing so, we keep his spirit alive and ensure that
his legacy continues to inspire for generations to come. Papa, your light shines on.
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