James "Jr." Vernon Waters

James Vernon “Junior” Waters, 63, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, peacefully entered eternal rest on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Forsyth Medical Center. He was born on July 3, 1962, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to Catherine Waters and J.V. Hicks.

Affectionately known as Junior, James was a man of love, laughter, and devotion. He was a proud graduate of ECPI, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice. For over 17 years, he was a dedicated and valued employee of Polo Ralph Lauren, admired for his strong work ethic and loyalty.James was a true Dallas Cowboys fan and enjoyed Western movies, but his greatest joys were found in life’s simple moments—traveling with his beloved wife, Sabrina, and enjoying his favorite meal, a good hotdog. His heart and life, however, were anchored in his faith. James gave his life to Christ at Friendship Holiness Church under the leadership of Bishop Elsie J. Gaines, where he was ordained as a trustee. He later became a devoted member of God’s United House of Grace & Mercy, serving faithfully under Apostle Carolyn C. Lazenby and Sir Bill Lazenby. James was ordained as a deacon and served with humility on the kitchen committee, male chorus and other duties. Wherever he was needed, he gave of himself with a willing spirit and a kind heart. He was known to many as “The Grill Master”. James was preceded in death by his sisters, Barbara Ann Waters and Mary Elizabeth Joseph.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted soulmate of 25 years, Sabrina Waters, of the home; his children, Maquaito Marshall of Houston, TX, Synethia Waters, Kendra Jones, Jessica Waters, Derrick (Christina) Jones, Stefone Waters, and Tatianna (Jeremiah) Sumner, all of Greensboro, NC; Travis Waters of Trinity, NC; James Waters, Jr., Matthew Waters, Timothy “TL” Scott, Ashley Howze, and Doris Howze, all of Winston-Salem, NC; 29 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and three godchildren, Malia Howze of Winston-Salem, NC, Xzayvier Smith of Durham, NC, and Geremyah Smith of High Point, NC. He is also survived by his loving sister, Linda Joseph of Greensboro, NC; two brothers, Anthony Waters of Winston-Salem, NC, and Lewis Waters of Washington, DC; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.James will also be fondly remembered by his close friends, Frank (Cynthia) Page of High Point, NC, Carl Griffin of Greensboro, NC, and Preston (Charlotte) Mangum of Greensboro, NC. Special thanks to Jasmine Williams, Guest services at Novant Health and Gail Brown, Spiritual Care Chaplin of Novant Health.

His life was a testimony of love, faith, and commitment. Though his passing leaves an empty place in our hearts, we rejoice in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of the Lord.” – Matthew 25:23