Joanie Marie James

Joanie Marie James was born on August 2, 1953 in Washington, D.C. to the late Leroy Edward James Sr. and Evelyn Gertrude James-Brooks. She was the fourth born of seven children. At a young age, she was baptized at New Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

Joanie attended public school in Washington D.C. and graduated with honors from Margaret Washington Vocational High School. She was an avid reader and a very humble person with a sweet and lovely personality that’s hard to find.

Joanie loved her soap operas and music. One of her favorite songs was “Make Up to Break Up” by The Stylistics. She was a remarkable person with a kind and gentle heart and always giving to others. She devoted her life providing for and taking care of her children and grandchildren. She was the best mother, grandmother, sister and aunt she could be. She loved everyone equally and was considered the peacemaker of the family.

Left to cherish her memories are her devoted children, La’Keisha S. Washington and William R. Lowery Jr. (Nichole); four grandchildren, Trayvon S. Washington-Lathern, Tylee W. Hutchins, Brylin L. Hutchins, Jasmin Yesudian and one great-grandchild Jaiiah Young. She also leaves behind three sisters, Canary L. Monts-Rogers (Preston), Deborah J. Bryant (Shelby), Julie A. Bryant and two brothers, Cleophus M. James (Linda) and Robert E. James. Also to cherish her memories a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Joanie is preceded in death by her grandmother Canary L. Tillie, her parents, uncle John E. Tillie Jr., brother Leroy E. James Jr. and devoted companion William R. Lowery Sr.