Mr. James Roger Emerson

Matthew 11:28

Mr. James Roger Emerson, age 81, a longtime resident of Richmond, California passed away on Friday, August 25, 2023. He was the first of six children born to his proud parents, Ralph, Sr. and Arline Emerson in Minden, Louisiana. When he was three years old, the family relocated from Minden, Louisiana to Richmond, California where he was raised.

James possessed a quiet strength of character that emanated from his core, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. His kind and compassionate nature knew no bounds, and he approached life with an open heart and a willingness to help others. He never liked drama so, he sided on peace. He said what he meant and he meant what he said. He was a protector and advocate for his younger siblings, and others who were close to him. Although he was the eldest, most people thought that his younger, more outgoing brother, Ralph, Jr. was the oldest. James would politely clarify the incorrect information, in a most respectful way.

James was educated through the Richmond Unified School District. He graduated from Richmond Union High School in 1958. He loved learning new things, and continued his studies by enrolling in post-high courses through Contra Costa Community College.

James met and married, his former wife, Margaret in June 1967. Two children, Nicole and Kyle were born to this union.

James accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized as a public confession of faith in Christ at the St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond, CA. He was ordained and served as a deacon at St. Luke.

Until he was seriously injured, James worked for Port Chicago. He then went to work for the Richmond Unified School District at Kennedy High School. After thirty years, James retired as a Teachers’ Aide working with special needs children. Additionally, he was the head custodian, and Senior Class sponsor with Ms. Betty Crenshaw, and a member of the Local 1 - Union.

Those who knew James will remember that he tried to live a life of meaningful acts of love, compassion, and a strong sense of service to his fellow man. He volunteered as a Big Brother, targeting young men, who were growing up in challenged learning environments.

James was skilled with his hands a trait that he most assuredly by his father. Under the direction of their father, James and his brothers, helped to remodel their family home, expanding the small house to add two bedrooms and a bathroom.

One of James' most memorable moments, came when he volunteered at his grandson Jaevon’s school by assisting the instructor in building a moderate sized sailboat for the classroom. Upon completing the sailboat project, they transported the boat from Richmond to the Berkeley Pier so that the children could learn how to sail it, weekly with sailing lessons.

James not only loved the Lord, but he also cherished his family, and his soulmate of 27 years, Betty Crenshaw. He was an avid bowler and loved taking cruises with Betty.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph W. Emerson Sr. and Arline Emerson; youngest sister, Marsha Lynn; nephews, baby Andrew Young and Tony Emerson.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory, his soulmate of 27 years, Betty Crenshaw; daughter, Nicole Alexander of Harbor City, CA.; son, Kyle Sr. (Timecia) Emerson of Longview Texas; four grandchildren, Jaevon, Delyla, Kyle Jr, and Karrie. Two brothers, Reverend Ralph Waldo Emerson, Jr. (Gladys) of Fort Worth, Texas; Jarvis (Elaine) of Altadena, CA; two sisters, JoAnn Young of Bossier City, Louisiana; and Isabel Emerson of Richmond, California. Extended family members Sandra Robinson, Joe Tasby III; Willie Ajaui and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

James' kind and gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of service, compassion, and kindness will continue to inspire and guide us all.