Roosevelt James

Roosevelt Nathaniel James was born September 6, 1940 to the proud parents Millicent Johnson and Arnold James in St. James, Grenada, West Indies.  Roosevelt  was one of 6 siblings,  The eldest being Cosmos James, then ( Roosevelt), Theresa (Julie) Ward(Deceased),  Elias James, Julian James and Philip James (Deceased). 

Roosevelt James, affectionately named Roos, Roosie and Papu,  was a consummate gentleman who loved the Lord and family with all his heart.   Roosevelt attended the St. George’s R.C. for Boys school in Grenada for primary school.   In December 1953, his family left Grenada and migrated to Aruba, Netherlands Antilles.  While living in Aruba he attended J.F.K. Technical College from 1954-1960 where he graduated with his diploma in English, Math, History and Mechanics.  It was also there, he would meet his child hood  friend Hanna Fernandes (James). Roosevelt migrated to London England in 1961.  At Holloway SDA Church in London, he  met and married Hannah Ponciana Baptiste James, their union would produce two children, Janice Marshall and Garry James.  They would remain happily married for 37 years, until Hannah proceeded him in death on  May 6  2000 when she lost her fight with breast cancer.

While residing in England he attended Hackney Technical College and  received his degree as a Mechanic Technician. He would work as a mechanic in London and become a foreman in 1968 through 1975 at the Triangle Garage, Stanford Hill, London.  Throughout the course of his life, Roosevelt worked at several automobile shops as a repairman/technician and manager.  He received special training in technical schools through September 1969.  In October 1969, Roosevelt relocated with his family to Brooklyn New York, where he worked for TWB Service Station as  manager of repairs from 1969-1971.

After leaving TWB, he joined Savoy Service  Station in a supervisory capacity from 1971-1974.  He also taught auto mechanic trade at Robert’s Technical School in New York City through 1974.  In 1974, Roosevelt relocated to Miami, Florida with his family.  While in Miami, he owned and operated his own gas station and repair shop known as JAD Fina Repair shop with two partners.  While in Miami, Roosevelt started a program teaching young men mechanical skills after school and providing employment for neighborhood youth.  In 1977, Roosevelt was inducted into the Black Hall of Fame as an outstanding community Leader.  In 1978, Roosevelt accepted a position with Dade County Parks and Recreation Department as a construction/heavy equipment mechanic until his retirement in December 1996.

Brother James (as he was addressed by his church family), was one of the founding members at Miami Tabernacle Church. He along with his brother, brother-in-law and a few friends who also moved to Miami  from New York, started holding services in their homes until the birth of Tabernacle church was created.  Brother James served as a First Elder, Personal Ministries Director and any position that afforded him to be of service to the church and the ministry of the gospel.

After the loss of his first love Hannah P. James, years later he was fortunate enough to reconnect with his childhood friend, Hanna C. James and they were married on July 28th, 2002.  Hanna C. James was blessed to have had the opportunity to love him and be loved by him and the whole entire family were fortunate to witness the love they shared and be loved by Roosevelt.

Roosevelt loved music and throughout his battle with Alzheimer’s, his family could count on him to sing a good oldie or gospel song from start to finish.  Roosevelt touched anyone who knew him with his soft-spoken words,  warm nature, bright smile,  contagious laughter, and his ability to provide wise, loving counsel in a calm, Godly manner. While are hearts are saddened, we are encouraged by Roosevelt’s spirit of love and kindness that will live on in our hearts.

Roosevelt leaves to mourn his wife, Hanna C. James, Brothers-Cosmos (Joan), Julian (Magelene) and Elias( Arvelle) ; Children- Garry James,(Jonette) Janice Marshall (Samuel) , Michael, Jeffery (Kimberly), Karen and Nicole; Grandchildren- Michael Marshall, Nathaniel James, Rebecca James, Briana Walton, Tajah Jackson, Jana Jackson, Nia Jackson;  Antonio Hunt, Natasha Hunt, Michael Anthony Hunt, Jr. Sydney Hunt, Joshua Hunt and Matthew Hunt, nieces, Debra, Roxane, Suzane, Janelle, Charlene, Theresa , nephews  Richard, Ronald, Jay and a host of  family members, friends and church family.

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