Ernest James

Life Reflections Ernest "Toots" James, one of nine children, was born January 12, 1960, in St. Louis County, MO. His parents, Richard C. James and Mary P. James, his oldest sister, Rose Mary Jackson and an older brother, Kenneth James, preceded him in death. Ernest confessed a faith in Christ at an early age. He was originally from Meacham Park, but moved to Rock Hill at the age of eleven, where he grew up and lived out the rest of his life. He graduated from Southview High School, and was a faithful member of Old Community Baptist Church, where he was known as the "Candyman". When you saw Ernie, you saw his huge smile and heard lots of laughter. He would also have a 128-ounce water bottle and a bag of candy with him to share with others. Ernie was self-employed and loved to attend Webster Groves High School football games to cheer his nephew, Caleb on. Ernest was a great brother, a better uncle, a great friend, and a special person to all who knew him. He loved his family and loved the family gatherings at his sister(s) Betty or Wretzie's houses, or his nephew(s) Byron, Damon, or Snook's houses. You could always count on Ernie being there watching the football, basketball, or baseball game and giving his opinion. He was a great presence no matter what the occassion. His great big smile, cracking of jokes, and laughing and playing with the younger kids could be counted on. Ernie leaves to cherish his memory for sisters: Annie Mae Patterson, Betty Works (Marvin), Gale Pink, Loretta (Wretzie) J. Burkes (Damonte); three brothers: Richard C. James, Jr., Elgin F. James (Gail), Wilbur Kemp; two brothers-in-law Earl Jackson and Darian Patterson, Sr., a great friend Frank Bennett, along with a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. He will definately be missed but not forgotten. He left us a lot of great memories to hold on to as well as words of widom. Services: Old Community M.B. Church 238 West Kirkham Avenue Webster Groves, MO 63119 .