James Lee Cheeks was born on October 12, 1944, in Albany, Georgia. He was the beloved son of the late Henry Cheeks, Sr. and Rosa Nix Cheeks.

He was educated in the Dougherty County School System, including Monroe High School where he graduated in the class of 1962. While at Monroe, he active in numerous school organizations and activities.

In 1993, James united with the Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend H. B. Johnson. Over the years, he was a devoted member and served faithfully in various capacities within the church until his demise.

As a very young man, James developed a passion for the exploration of food, flavor and taste. Although largely self-taught, he quickly grasped culinary concepts which led him to his true calling and life-long career as a Chef. He was employed many years at Doublegate Country Club, Stonebridge Country Club, and Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital where he shared his great love and passion for food. Through the years, he cooked with instinct and created flavors that would go "Pow" in your mouth. His attention to detail, work ethics, and expertise in his field were second to none. He was a true "master" of his profession.

James was profoundly devoted to his family and friends. He was an incredible brother, uncle, cousin, and most importantly—father. His love for family was insurmountable and he would go the extra mile to ensure their happiness and well-being. He prided himself in having friendships full of love, humor, and respect; and he enjoyed the time spent with his Burger King buddies.

On January 11, 2019, James was surrounded by loved ones as he peacefully departed this earthly life at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five siblings, Claudette Cheeks, Deloris Nichols, Henry Cheeks, Jr., Roosevelt Cheeks, and Gaudie Cheeks, Sr.

Fond memories will be cherished by his children, Stephanie Vinson and James (Angela) Cheeks of Atlanta, GA, and Michael (LaToria) Cheeks and Charlene (Johnny) Bush of Albany, GA; four siblings, Catherine Hill of Atlanta, GA, Cilla Cheeks of Newark, NJ, and Milton (Wanda) Cheeks and Sharon (Andrew) McDowell of Albany, GA; eight grandchildren, Adam, Michelle, Hannah Grace, Jaquez, Rodney, Jawaski, Jamiel, and Jhakira; four great grandchildren; a dear friend, Charlotte Washington of Albany, GA; and a host of nephews, cousins, and friends.