James Arthur Capers

SSG James Arthur Capers, US Army Retired, age 56, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at his home.James was born in Baltimore, MD on December 28, 1964, to the late Barbara Jean Bates Capers and John Henry Capers. He was preceded in death by his sibling, Richard Dean Bates, Cheryl Lynn Capers, and John Alexander Capers. Born into a military family, James followed his patriotic calling and enlisted in the Armed Forces of America. He spent 11 years deployed overseas in Germany where he met and married, Gabriele Capers. They have five children together. James retired from the United States Army at Fort Drum, NY in 2003 after 20 years of service. He was a devoted husband and father, a dear baby brother, a dutiful patriot and a damn fine man of principle and dedication. He is survived by his wife of 37 years Gabriele Capers; his children, Daniel C. Capers (US Army Ret.) and his wife Lauren (US Army Vet.), Bodye J. Capers and his fiancée Krystal Reid, Patricia J. Capers (US Navy), Cynthia H. Capers and James A. Capers Jr. (US Air Force) and his wife Haley; two grandchildren Jayden J. Capers and Jazmine M. Capers, his brother Michael W. Capers, his sister Karen Edwards and her husband Maurice.James loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren whether it was for football games, watching movies, taking naps, or enjoying meals together. He got himself a sport bike to ride together with his sons and planned to soon get himself a Harley. He enjoyed watching NASCAR races keeping up with the news and watching SCI-FI and superhero movies. James was also competitive in family bouts of the Call of Duty videogame. In his midlife crisis, he purchased a Camaro. He had a weakness for Tastykake Fudge Bars and ice cream. He enjoyed a good debate, often on politics, and was always spirited to understand contrasting opinions. It was always a fun time to have drinks and play spades despite how bad he was at cards and cleverly cheating. He enjoyed old school R&B and on occasion would portray his inner Snoop Dogg and gift us all with a dance and verses from his favorite songs. He was the pillar of the family, who gave the best hugs, and his laughter was always infectious. When he smiled, it brightened everyone's mood. His very presence gave us all comfort and the strength to handle what life threw at us. James was a gift to the world and his spirit touched many lives.A memorial graveside service will be held 1:00 pm Monday, March 29, 2021 with full military honors at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake, NC.