James W Jones

James Willie Jones was born August 22, 1935, in McCormick, South Carolina to the late Willie and Gertrude Jones. He was the first of 12 children.

James joined Shiloh AME Church in McCormick, South Carolina at an early age. He attended the McCormick school system until he moved north to Evanston, Illinois for better job opportunities. He was united in holy matrimony to Mildred Williamson in November 1955.

James worked for Carol Buick and Toyota dealerships for over 40 years as a porter, and later as Joe Levy's driver until he passed away. James had a love for cars, especially older cars. He believed in taking care of his cars. His last vehicle was a 1995 Buick Roadmaster in mint condition with low mileage. James had a love for people, and he believed in helping everyone. He was well known to many in the community, always smiling, and would strike up a conversation with everyone. James loved to travel to Mississippi, enjoying the hot weather, fresh air, and food. When he finally retired, he spent time watching westerns, MSNBC, and keeping up with the neighborhood news. James (known to many as Jimmie) was the face of the community!

James is preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; his parents, and seven siblings: Sammie, Luther, and Howard Jones, Sallie Mae Jones, Dorothy Jones Middleton and Pearlie Mae Jones-McDuffie. After a short illness, James transitioned from this life on Friday, January 10, 2025.

Memories of James will be cherished by his three daughters: Janice (Tom) Payne, Rennee Jones, and Mahalia (Joseph) Wideman of Evanston, IL; one son: Michael (Minnie) Jones of Tupelo, MS; three brothers: Jasper Jones, Nathan (Nellie) Jones of McCormick, SC, and Bobby Jones of Chicago, IL; two sisters: Ruth (Bobby) Brown of Greenwood, SC, and Claudia Jones of McCormick, SC; six grandchildren: Troy Michael Jones, Glenn Smith, Ashley Smith, Justus Smith, Asia Lasley, Jeremiah Lashley; six great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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