James Douglas McDew

1942 - 2022

James Douglas McDew, 79, entered into the more immediate presence of his Savior on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022.
James was born to Anna B. and William McDew on Sept. 12, 1942 in New Britain. The youngest of four children, James was by far the most precocious. As a youngster, he attended the Walnut Hill school for the Underweight and Malnourished. After successful UV ray treatments and additional meals, he gained enough weight to exit the program. James graduated from New Britain High School where, as a member of the track team, he excelled at the 4 x 400 relay under the leadership of the legendary Coach Irv Black. James was also an avid martial arts fan and earned a green belt in Judo under the tutelage of Sandy Sanderson.
In 1967, James wed Evelyn McClain and they went on to have three children. In 1969, James joined Bethel Apostolic church and gave his life to Christ. A beloved Deacon and Sunday School teacher, James devoted over 30 years to diligent biblical stewardship. Early on, James and Evelyn impressed upon their children the importance of service, and each went on to become trusted servant leaders in their respective communities: Omar, as a Juvenile Justice Counselor; Sonji, as a Registered Nurse; and Tammi, as a Health Teacher and Track & Field Coach.
After the passing of his wife, Evelyn, in 1991, James married Evangelist Sadie McDew after a brief courtship. James is predeceased by his wives, Evelyn (1991) and Sadie (2017). He is survived by his children, Omar McDew of New Britain, Sonji (Paul) Intagliata of West Hartford and Tammi McDew of Dallas, Texas; stepchildren, Cynthia (David) Franklin, Fayetteville, N.C., Carolyn Crouch, Willingboro, N.J., Mary (Eddie) Gaskins, Middletown, Conn., Elijah Rankins Jr, Trenton, N.J., William Rankins, Florida, Carl Rankins, Middletown, Conn, Asa (Bridget) Rankins, North East, Pa.; grandchildren, Jonathan McDew, Brandi McLeain, Lindsay Intagliata and Pastor Tyren Gaskins, with whom he shared a closed bond until his final days, and great-grandchildren, James and Jerred McDew.
Among James' many attributes, he will be most remembered as a loving father, husband and disciple of Christ. His children and grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Pop", will cherish memories of his creative storytelling and love of jokes. James departed this world as a father most would be honored to have, but most importantly, he left as a Great man of God.
Calling hours will be held Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Paul A. Shaker Funeral Home, 764 Farmington Avenue, New Britain, CT 06053. A Home Going Service will be held at Bethesda Apostolic church on Friday, Feb. 18, 2022. A viewing will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and the service will start at 11. Burial will immediately follow in Fairview Cemetery, 120 Smalley St., New Britain. To extend condolences to the McDew Family, please visit: http://www.shakerfuneralhome.com
Memorial donations may be made to Waters Edge Center for Health and Rehabilitation, c/o James McDew, 111 Church Street, Middletown, CT 06457