James (Jimmy Neal) McRae

On Friday October 11, 2019, James McRae, loving husband, and father of four children passed away at the age of 90. James (Jimmy Neal) was born on June 15, 1929 in Birmingham, AL. to Neal McRae and Nellie Elizabeth (Parker) McRae. He proudly served the United States with war and peace time assignments for a combined 41 years, in the U.S. Navy, Army, Army Reserves, and National Guard. Following a military service, James was successful in the business sector, owning and brokering multiple real estate companies, and a real estate school. Following his second retirement, James returned again to real estate, and sold and developed properties throughout the Birmingham area. On May 24, 1952, James married Donna Mae Paige. James and Donna raised four children, and are survived by: Betsy Karr, Bob McRae (Melisa), Bill McRae, and Barry McRae. In addition, James and Donna have six grandchildren: Kris Karr (Jennifer) of Naperville, IL, Brian Karr (Heather) of Vestavia, AL., Lauren Pearson (Nick) of Chelsea, AL., Jerrod McRae (Stephanie) of Chelsea, AL., Meghan Byrd (Brandon) of Vestavia, Al., and Brittany McRae of Cleveland, TN. James and Donna also have five great-grandchildren: Ashlyn Acker (Pearson), Kinsley Acker (Pearson), Clara Karr, Alex Karr, Katelyn Karr, and Ava James Byrd. While many people focus on talents, hobbies, and professional achievements, James entire life has be focused on his marriage to Donna, and love for his family. Everyone that knows or has met James, immediately comments on his constant cuddling and handholding with his wife, Donna. For 67 years, James and Donna have perfectly modeled love and devotion to each other, commitment to marriage, and focus on the family. Outside of family and career, James has spent his adult life serving as a layman in his local church. James' legacy is for his unbridled love to his family. This obituary is intentionally written in the present tense, as James' legacy lives on. James was preceded in death by his father, Neal McRae; and his mothers, Nellie Elizabeth (Parker) McRae and Ola Bernice (Scivley) McRae. James is also survived by his sister, Shirley Herring (Fred) and many of his closest relatives, "the cousins". A celebration of James's life will be held on Wednesday October 16, 2019 at 2PM at Ridout's Elmwood Chapel, 800 Dennison Ave. SW Birmingham AL 35211. Visitation will be prior to the funeral service from 1:00 – 2:00 PM. graveside service will follow, with burial at Elmwood Cemetery. The McRae family would like to thank those that have lovingly cared for James and Donna the last 2 years... Bea Mbugua, thank you.