Dr James, and Family, 

I was searching for your phone number because I wanted to call and thank you for pushing me so hard in anatomy and physiology. I wanted to thank you for the extra credit and extended lessons. They were hard. At the time I knew they were important, otherwise  you wouldn’t have wasted your time teaching me. Recently I realized what you were trying to do. You were getting me ready for bigger things.  I wanted to update you. I am in nurse practitioner school at Georgetown university. I’m in pathophysiology right now and I can’t express how much your lessons have helped me in this class, and in general as a nurse over the past 9 years. I still hear your words of wisdom. I loved being your student. Thank you for everything! 

To your family, 
Thank you for sharing him with me. He taught me more than just what was in the lessons. He taught me about parenting. (My kids were very little while I was in his class). He told me ‘they’ll eat’. And ‘No kid ever died of crying’ . He taught me about rising above. (I was his ‘teachers pet’ which garnered some bitterness from other students) he taught me about the sun and moon cycles. Most importantly he taught me to always have two ways to leave any room I’m in. That one has literally saved my life. ( I was an ER nurse for years). I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. I barely knew him and he left such an imprint on my life. I hope it brings you comfort to know he’s thought of and held in the highest regards! He was my all time favorite teacher. With love and gratitude 
Paula 

Rosemary I was trying to find a number for you all but came across this instead. My heart has been saddened and I hold you and your family close to my heart. I realize this is so late but I wish I had only known. As you know the kids and I hold you and Aaron so high in our lives. The time we were able to spend with you during Easter and when you came to visit us. I have many pictures I would love to make copies of for you of those times. Aaron was a wonderful teacher that cared about his students. He made coming to class interesting. Rosemary, my heart is so saddened right now and I wish I could have talked to you both about my experience a few years back when I was in a coma for a few months, but I learned so much about this world and the next. He is for sure in a very happy place and able to see you and his kids. It is amazing! so amazing for a couple of years all I wanted was to return. He's in good hands. I hope you are doing well. Much love to you and your family. Keeping you close to my heart. Please call me, I'm sure that my number is somewhere in your phones. God Bless

I barely knew Dr. James (it wasn't until I read his obituary that I discovered that we had the same birthdate of May 29!).  The few times I met him was when I was with my father, Dr. James B. Sutton, Jr., at Maricopa Tech/Gateway Community College.  I do know that my father not only thought that Dr. James was an excellent educator, but he also admired and respected him.
When my father passed away (Jan. 2006), Dr. James was one of the few people from school and the district who personally called to express his condolences to my family.  When we were asked if there'd be anyone speaking at my father's memorial, Dr. James' name was the only one that came to mind.
In the few times when my father talked about what he'd like at his memorial, he always mentioned that he'd like Dr. James to do the eulogy.
When we asked Dr. James if he would speak at the memorial, he asked if he could do the eulogy.  We then mentioned to him that that was one of the things my father had hoped for.
My mom thought the eulogy was, in her words, "Fantastic.". We also thought the eulogy was beautiful and more than we expected.  My family will always be grateful to Dr. James for his words, his sympathy, and his kindness.
He will be missed.

Dad,I miss you so much.. I just want to call your phone and hear your wonderful voice and that warm laugh again. I love you and know that your at peace. God Bless your wonderful spirit. Love you forever.    Your daughter... Edwanda....

Miss you Aaron.  I tell people about your age and fitness all the time.  You are an inspiration to many and candle in my life.  Thank You!  Big Love, steven sabatier, ND

You're an inspiration. I pray you're at peace. Although We never spoke I always saw you at the gym and remember always saying damn ihope I look as good as you did for age.

Rosemary, my heartfelt condolences are with you and your family. It is my prayer that the Lord will continue to bless, comfort and keep all of you in His care!  With Love,

In loving memory of my uncle, you will be missed. I pray peace for your wife and family!

Your wonderful smile, your dedication to education and students, and your special ways of sharing joy will be missed.  I am a better person for knowing you. The time was just not long enough. My thoughts and prays are which your family.

 Time never seemed to be on our side, but the moments we all shared together were memorable. We'll never forget your laugh and  your loving hugs. We will miss your presence at our mom, your daughter, Edwanda's wedding that we are all looking forward to. We pray that your soul is at peace with God. We always have and will love you dearly. 
With love: your daughter, Edwanda Cesar(Kevin Goin)  
Grandchildren: Dr. Ashley Cesar, April Cesar, Alison Cesar, Alexis(Segus) Jolivette, Adrienne Cesar, Amy Cesar, Aaron Cesar
Great grandchildren: Alivia, Aniyah, Ava Cesar, Ajah and Segus Jolivette Jr.

Although we knew Aaron only in the last weeks of his life as we toured Australia and New Zealand,we came to understand what an incredible and wonderful person he was.
Our hearts go out to Rosemary and her family...

I have remembered Dr. James ever since I took a course of his at Gateway CC, and paid him a visit later at MCC.  He was a wonderful instructor and a very respectable person. I am grateful for his steadfastness and supportive talks during a difficult time.  Thank you Dr. James for being an example to the world and caring for your students!

I worked with Aaron James for 15 years until he retired.  He continued to come by and see us on a regular basis and I was always cheered by his big smile and upbeat personality.  He was an inspiration to all of us that knew him.  I remember Aaron most fondly for his baking abilities.  Every year in December for my birthday he would bake me the most delicious cake I have ever eaten.  Rest in peace Aaron.  I will miss you tremendously. Sandy Coates

I will also remember Aaron, neighbor and friend, although I have not seen him since I moved in 2004.  He had the most infectious laugh that I have ever heard before.  Never have I seen someone "fast walk" like Aaron James.  I would see him where I once lived next door to Aaron and Rosemary.

Rosemary, I wish you all of the blessings that our Heavenly Father can ever give you. We know that He will see you through what has likely been the most difficult time you have ever faced. The journey through recovery is difficult but is made easier knowing that the love of your life is with Him.  A simple little book that I read this summer, Heaven is For Real, further confirmed my beliefs.  And the painting The Prince of Peace by  Akiane Kramarik done at age 8, is the Jesus seen by the 4 year old little boy that experienced Heaven.

I might not be able to make the service but will try to be there, as there was a pre-existing appointment that I cannot re-schedule.

You and your family will remain in my heart and prayers for the days to come.

Paulette Selmi

Thank you, Aaron, for all the good times.  You brought to this world a childlike enthusiasm and wonderment for nature - a lesson for us all. As you continue your journey we will carry you in our hearts.  God bless.

"Big Brother", I thank God for the time He allowed you to touch my life.  I will truly miss that big smile and when I would call the house you would answer "hey Al".  My prayers are with you Rosemary, Aaron, Jr, Gregory, and Kitty
God bless and keep you

I have worked as an adjunct at MCC for many years.  Usually when I go to campus, I have one or more of my 5 kids in tow.  This is what I remember of Dr. James, the great kindness and attention he bestowed on my children. He was a kindhearted man and will be missed.

To all of Aaron's family, you have my deepest sympathies. He was a good friend, teacher, biologist, and role model. His strong positive influence will continue to be felt by literally thousands of people he encountered at MCC....myself included. We are fortunate to have known him and he will be sorely missed.

GRANPA, WE WILL MISS YOU.. ALTHOUGH WE DIDN'TSPEND MUCH TIME TOGETHOR, THE TIMES WE DID SHARE WERE WONDERFUL. WE WILL MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU FOREVER. YOUR GRANDCHILDREN AND GRT GRANDCHILDREN. DR. ASHLEY D CESAR, APRIL CESAR,ALISON CESAR, ALEXIS JOLLIVETTE/SEGAS, ADRIENNE CESAR, AMY CESAR, AARON CESAR,ALIVIA,ANIYAH,AVA CESAR, AJAH,SEGAS JR (SJ) JOLLIVETTE. WE LOVE YOU GRANDPA ELLIOTTE...

Prayers to Rosemary and the boys!  A man Godly man of integrity who will be missed.

My deepest condolences go to you Rose, your sons, and the family. Aaron was loved by many and he touched so many people's lives with his gentle and caring nature. He was the high point of many group gatherings where his friends would gather to hear him tell a funny story, share an experience, or pass on some of his wisdom and knowledge. I will forever remember Aaron as my Pocket Pall and the countless smiles he brought to my face. I loved talking with him and learning all that I could. He was one extraordinary and classy man. I will miss him dearly.

OBITUARY

Dr. Aaron Elliott James, Sr.

29 May, 1940 – 20 November, 2014

Green Acres Mortuary & Cemetery

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