James L. Pamplin

James L. Pamplin obituary

James L. Pamplin

Upcoming Events

Oct

1

Visitation

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Calvary Baptist Church

2629 Wylie Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Send Flowers

Oct

1

Service

11:00 a.m.

Calvary Baptist Church

2629 Wylie Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Send Flowers

Services provided by

Samuel J. Jones Funeral Home

Only 9 hours left for delivery to next service.

James Pamplin Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Samuel J. Jones Funeral Home on Sep. 29, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

HIS JOURNEY

Born June 17, 1948, in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, James Sherman Pamplin (Also known as Jimmy James, James Sherman, or simply Jet) was the beloved son of the late Louise Pamplin and Rufus Keith.

Jet attended Fifth Avenue High School, where he forged lasting friendships and developed the quiet confidence that defined his life. Jet worked for Coca-Cola before retiring from the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, where his reliability and steady spirit left a lasting impression.

He was baptized at Grace Presbyterian Church, carrying his faith with humility and grace.

THE MAN WE LOVED

Jet was a true introvert, perfectly content with his own company, a quality few people can truly appreciate. He knew himself, and he found peace in quiet moments.

When Jet chose to emerge from his beloved "hibernation," family and friends were greeted by his bright, contagious smile and a sharp, witty sense of humor that warmed every heart. When he walked into a room, his smooth, effortless stride spoke volumes, cool, confident, and unmistakably Jet.

Those moments of laughter, insight, and that unforgettable walk were treasures to all who knew him.

Jet leaves behind his wife, Dildred Pamplin; children, James L. Pamplin and Robin L. Walker Wright (Kevin); grandchildren, Ashleee, Douglas, Daeja, Saudia, Semaj, James 2, Keyshawn; and 11 great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy.

He is survived by his siblings, Mary Louise, Freeman "PeeWee" (Raynell), Robert "Hot-Rod" (Renee), Joyce, Darlene, Francine (Ronald), and Velma; and his special lifelong friend, Chester "Bounce" Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Shirley, Liz, Little Man, Leon Lowe; beloved grandson Jamal; and Turtle Raphiel.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor James Pamplin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Upcoming Events

Oct

1

Visitation

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Calvary Baptist Church

2629 Wylie Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Send Flowers

Oct

1

Service

11:00 a.m.

Calvary Baptist Church

2629 Wylie Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Send Flowers

Services provided by

Samuel J. Jones Funeral Home

Only 9 hours left for delivery to next service.