James Lee Boatright Sr.

James Lee Boatright Sr. 51, passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.

James was born on May 16, 1974 in Dowagiac, Michigan to Bruce Edward Boatright and Mable Mae (Cole) Boatright.

Left to cherish the memory of James is his loving wife of 29 years, Leola C. (Brooks) Boatright; children, Kentravous L. Boatright, James L. Boatright Jr, and Noah D. Boatright; grandchildren, Samiya A. Harris Boatright and Nokoah L. Boatright; parents, Bruce and Mable Boatright; siblings, Bruce Boatright Jr, Eric Boatright, and Angela Wesley; aunts, Bessie Fultz, Essie Cole and Margaret Bryant; uncles, Jessie Cole, Willie (Barbara) Cole, and Edward (Lola) Cole, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family and friends.

James was preceded in death by his grandmother's, Clotiel Cole and Ethel Johnson, uncles, George Cole, Johnie Cole, Jimmie Cole, Eddie Boatright, James Brown and Bobroy Conley, and one aunt, Joyce Boyd.

James dedicated 14 years of his life as a security officer in the casino industry, where his warm personality and sense of humor made him a favorite among colleagues and patrons alike. Though he was known for his professional demeanor, those who knew him best understood his true nature-a lively jokester who could light up a room just by walking in.

An athlete in his formative years, James played football during elementary and high school. His competitive spirit carried through to his adult life, where he enjoyed throwing a piece of meat on the grill, fishing, hunting, and spending quality time with family and outdoors.

A master in the kitchen and becoming a renowned Pitmaster and chef for his unique style and flavor on the grill, James always added a personal touch that brought everyone together. His passion for barbequing and music allowed him to connect with others in a joyful way, often singing the life into gatherings.

Appearing on television, Netflix's "American Barbeque Showdown" and Food Network, Canada "Fire Masters" and competing in many barbeque competitions as a team member or just for Boatright's Bar-B-Que himself, James always remained humble and dedicated to his craft never letting fame and recognition change him or his character.

Above all, James was a dedicated family man. Married to his loving wife, Leola, for 29 wonderful years, he cherished the moments spent with her, their children, and grandchildren.

A Funeral Service for James will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11:00am at Apostolic Lighthouse Church, 30402 M-62, Dowagiac, Michigan 49047. Burial will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery in Dowagiac, Michigan.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.

Photos, condolences, and memories may be left for James' family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com