Earnest Eugene James, beloved son of the late John Henry James, Sr. and Carrie Mae Nixon James, was born on May 9, 1944, in Randolph County, Georgia.

Growing up in Sasser, Georgia, he received his formal education in the Terrell County School System.

On January 21, 1967, Earnest was united in marriage to the love of his life, Runell Hill.  His love for his wife was unmatched—she was the sparkle in his eyes, the beat of his heart, and the air that he breathed.  Together they created a home filled with love and strong family values.  Earnest was an awesome husband and father who took great care in providing for his family through his employment in the Warehouse Department at Firestone Tire and Rubber Plant.  He was a loyal, dedicated employee who worked untiringly until the plant closed.  In addition to his work at Firestone, he was also a skilled mechanic and lawn service professional whose workmanship and work ethics yielded him the reputation of being "top notch" in his field.

Earnest was innately a nurturing and caring man who was humble, fun-loving, and giving.  He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend who had a big heart for all things in life and found joy in every circumstance.  His life was filled with many interesting experiences combined with various hobbies and pastimes, including watching cartoons with his grandchildren who held the key to his heart.  He was a great conversationalist and his engaging personality captured the attention of all who knew him.  Earnest was a man who genuinely cherished every moment of his life—always looking forward to a better tomorrow.

Though Earnest's earthly departure on  December 25, 2021 leaves a void in the hearts of many, his caring spirit will always be remembered.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by nine siblings, Willie Fred, John Henry, Oscar Lee, Harold, Willie D., Johnnie Mae, Mary Helen, Mary Ruth, and Carolyn Loise James; and several aunts and uncles.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Runell Hill James of Albany, GA; his children, Gregory Antonio (Joyce) James of Albany, GA, Reginald Bernard (Faye) James of Birmingham, AL, Patrick Cardett of Ellenwood, GA, Sharon Denise Okeke of Ellenwood, GA, and Carolyn L. James of Decatur, GA; ten grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren; one brother, Nixon James of Dawson, GA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.