James Anderson Sr., age 79, took his last smile on June 12, 2026. He leaves behind a world that was undeniably brighter, louder, and infinitely more stylish because he was in it. To know James was to be pulled into a web of authentic love; he was a man who didn't wait for bloodlines, paperwork, or official titles to decide who belonged to him. If he loved you, you were family.

From Mississippi to Detroit's Diamonds

James was born on November 26, 1946, to Frank and Rosie Anderson. As a young boy, his family relocated from Mississippi to Detroit, Michigan, where James attended the public school system. It was during his youth in Detroit that James discovered his lifelong passion for baseball. Guarding third base with fierce talent and a sharp eye, he was a phenomenal player who always felt in his heart he should have played for the Major Leagues.

At just 17 years old, James was taken under his father’s wing and began what would become a distinguished 33-year career with the Chrysler Corporation. Working as a Line Inspector, James was the epitome of a hard worker and an exceptional provider for his family. He was also a famously sharp young dresser, earning the permanent, affectionate nickname "Popcorn" from the older guys at the plant. He remained a dedicated member of the Chrysler team until his well-earned retirement in 1996.

Life in Ohio: Faith, Style, and Fast Cars

James eventually moved from Detroit to Ohio, making Richmond Heights his cherished home. In 2005, he found his spiritual home at the Church of the Nazarene (now Hope United). Drawn to the energy of the young Pastor Stephen Banks, James became a faithful, deeply active member. He proudly served on the Board and welcomed countless souls as a greeter and usher. Churchgoers loved him for his wonderful smile, his warm hugs, and the fact that he always smelled incredibly good.

James lived life at full volume. He possessed an unwavering love for sports, passionately following football, basketball, and baseball, and an obsession with cars. Over his 79 years, he owned many beautiful vehicles. If you ever rode shotgun with James, you knew to fasten your seatbelt tightly, because you were always in for a fast, memorable ride. He squeezed every drop out of life, riding the car until the wheels fell off, experiencing every warm breeze and sunset along the way.

A Masterclass in Love and Family

For all his love of sports and cars, nothing compared to the devotion James had for his wife, Evelyn Anderson. Together, they traveled the world, lived life to the fullest, and provided everyone around them with a perfect example of love and marriage. Through this beautiful union, they raised their son, James Jr., and daughter, Ebony, whom James loved and raised entirely as his own from the age of two.

James was a magnetic force. The moment he walked into a room, the atmosphere shifted; the volume got louder, the laughter came easier, and people instinctively gravitated toward him. He was a master of sharp dancing, sharp style, and an iconic voice. He was also a man of deep wisdom. If you crossed his path, you left with knowledge and advice.

In his final chapter, James grew tired of the illness that tried to define him. Today, his family and friends choose not to speak of sickness, but of him; remembering the meals he cooked, the jokes he cracked, his unmatched confidence, and the open-hearted generosity that changed everyone who knew him.

Legacy and Reunion

James was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Frank and Rosie Anderson; his son, Jimmy; his brothers, Frank Ferguson and Leon Sanders; his sisters, Rosie Hutchinson (Noah) and Elizabeth Johnson; and his stepsister, Georgia Mae Lee.

He leaves to cherish his priceless memories his loving and devoted wife, Evelyn Anderson; his children, Christopher Anderson, Demond (Monique) Anderson, James Anderson Jr., Elisha (Anthony) Fuller, Ebony White, all of Cleveland, Ohio, and Venita (Shawn) Turney of Huntsville, Alabama.

He is the proud grandfather of seven beautiful grandchildren, including three special granddaughters he adoringly called “His Girls”: Jayla, Ja’Niya, and McKinzie.

He is also survived by three special nieces who absolutely spoiled him: Cha’Ron Conner, ChanTell (Xavier) Norton, and Cha’Liya; a special nephew of whom he was immensely proud, Labronn Conner Jr. of Columbus, Ohio; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, relatives, and treasured friends.

The family extends a special tribute to LaBronn Conner Sr., whom James loved and considered one of his own sons, and Brenda Conner, his special sister, confidante, and friend. Visiting their home was truly James's "Happy Place."

He is free, he is out of pain, and he is undoubtedly waiting on the other side, dressed better than everyone else, ready to pull us into a hug when we unite with him again.