In accordance with God’s blueprint for his life, Arthur James Sr. was born on July 29, 1939 in Washington, DC to the late Lila Hart James and Dan James Sr. He spent his early childhood with his grandparents and older siblings in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. After which he came back to Washington, DC to live with his parents and his siblings and attended school in the DC Public school system. Arthur was baptized at an early age and later joined New Samaritan Baptist Church with his Mother.
In his early twenties Arthur met and married Eleanor Carter. To this union four children were born. Valerie, Alfreda, Arthur Jr. and Reather. Arthur was blessed with one stepson, Anthony. He and his wife also took in Eleanor’s seven siblings after the death of her mother.
To support his family, Arthur worked many years at Miller and Long Construction Company as a cement finisher. Although he was a hard worker, he knew how to have fun. He enjoyed hanging with his friends at 7th and T street NW. Arthur was very outgoing; he met NO Strangers. He was always well dressed, his signature: A Toothpick in his mouth.
He later met Wilhelmina Matthews and they were blessed with two children Arlita and Tony.
Arthur took pleasure in spending time with family and friends. Every morning at 9:00 o’clock sharp, Arthur enjoyed talking with his sister, Reather on the phone. He cherished his chats with “Grandma Dolly” and during the holidays, looked forward to meals prepared by his brother Dan Jr. One of his greatest friendships was formed later in life with his caregiver, Lawrence. Arthur looked forward to seeing Lawrence every day. Whether it was cleaning, washing clothes or running errands, Arthur could always depend on Lawrence.
Arthur enjoyed sitting in his chair watching television, especially sports. Although he enjoyed all sports, from late August to January, it was all about “DEM BOYZ”. Win or lose Arthur was a devoted DALLAS COWBOYS fan. He would talk trash and collect his winnings at the same time.
In accordance with God’s blueprint for his life, Arthur James Sr. transitioned on Sunday, July 6, 2020. He is survived by his children: Valerie James, Alfreda Hamilton, Arthur James Jr., Reather Washington, Arlita Taylor (Gary), and Stepson: Anthony Burnette II (Tobia). He is also survived by his one and only sister Reather James Felton, Brothers: Henry James (Bertha) and Dan James Jr. (Audrey). Brothers-in-law: Clarence Prather EL, Wallace Prather EL and Fredrick P. Washington; Sisters-in-Law: Kay James, Carrie Lee and Delores Waters; Mother-in-Love Florence Matthews “Grandma Dolly” and devoted caretaker Lawrence Mudeh. Arthur will sorely be missed by a host of Grands, Great Grands, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends.
He was preceded in death by his Parents, Wife Eleanor James, Son Tony Matthews, Brother Morris James, Grandchildren Teya Little and Norman James, and Daughter-in-law, LaVetta Reid James.
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