James Atwater

1950 - 2025

James Atwater

June 5, 1950 - November 24, 2025

James Edward Atwater, 75, of East Moline, Ill., passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025.

A devoted husband, father, brother, and friend, James will be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and kind heart that touched all who knew him.

There will be a visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. with funeral services following at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory in Rock Island, Ill. Memorials may be made to the family.

Born on June 5, 1950, in Clarksdale, Miss., James was the beloved son of Percy Lee Atwater, Sr. and Mary Ella Atwater.

Raised in a large and loving family, he learned early the value of hard work, compassion, and faith.

After graduating from Rock Island High School in 1970, James began a lifelong journey defined by generosity of spirit and service to others.

In 1974, James married Bobbie Jean Atwater (Glass), and together they welcomed their daughter, Bernice, the joy of his life.

James found companionship again when he married Luella Miller in 2004. Although Luella preceded him in death in 2017, their years together were filled with laughter, devotion, and faith.

A man deeply rooted in his beliefs, James gave his life to Christ more than 35 years ago and faithfully lived his testimony. He served as a Sunday School teacher, usher, and Deacon, first at Apostolic Truth Temple, later at Jerusalem Temple, and most recently at Christ Apostolic Church in Davenport. His quiet strength, humility, and steadfast commitment to his church and community inspired those around him.

James was soft-spoken but strong in spirit. He had a peaceful presence that calmed others and brightened every room he entered. He enjoyed reading his Bible, watching Major League Baseball-particularly cheering for his beloved St. Louis Cardinals-attending church services, listening to gospel music, and reminiscing about his Southern upbringing with his brothers and sisters. James retired from Genesis Health systems in 2021.

James is survived by his daughter, Bernice (Cornell Veasey Sr.) Atwater; stepchildren, Tameka Miller

Lena Johnson, Frankie Johnson, James Johnson; granddaughter, Erika Atwater; great-grandson, A'mon Arrington; brothers, Ellis, Lester, Lee "Deacon," Atwater and Richard Ellis; sisters Florence Patterson, Flora Taylor, Liz Eleby, Joyce Ellis Scott, and Patricia Guy; and many nieces, nephews, and church family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Percy Jr., and his sister Mamie Pittman.

James's life was a quiet testimony of love, faith, and kindness-a legacy that will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the nurses of Compassus Hospice for their compassionate care.

To leave condolences for the family, visit www.wheelanpressly.com.