Sydney McKenzie James

Sydney McKenzie James, age 65, of Humble, Texas passed away on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Sydney fondly known as Paman, Mento, Backi, James, and Papa—was born in the warm and friendly city of Montego Bay, St. James, Jamaica. His proud parents, Louise Clarke (née Robinson) and Lewis James (deceased), welcomed their bundle of joy with overflowing happiness and bright expectations.

From a young age, Sydney demonstrated his gift for fixing and creating. Attending Granville All Age School and later Maldon Secondary School, he excelled in both academics and discipline, earning the honor of prefect. His technical skills blossomed further at the Granville Skills Training Institute, where he became a certified Radio and Television Technician—an area in which he truly shined. Even as a child, you could find him rewinding transformers, counting revolutions, and troubleshooting electronics. His reputation grew as he became the neighborhood’s go-to “fix-it” man. From electronics to cars, Sydney’s talent knew no bounds. In his adult years, Sydney worked at Sandals Royal Caribbean Hotel in Montego Bay as a security officer and as a taxi driver on the Glendevon route, providing service with a smile and warmth that touched everyone he met.

Sydney’s spiritual journey began when he committed his life to the Lord and was baptized into the Glendevon Seventh-day Adventist Church on October 13, 1990. His love for God's Word and prophecy was evident, and he eagerly engaged others in meaningful Bible discussions.

Music was the rhythm that sustained his soul. A proud member of the Glendevon SDA male choir, "Masters In Christ," Sydney loved singing praises and inspiring others. He also a member of a special missionary group participated in visits, spreading kindness and hope on Sundays.

Friends and family alike testify that Sydney was a patient, calm, and genuinely kind individual. He could repair almost anything—from speakers and amplifiers to car engines. Sydney’s love for football was truly infectious. He proudly played in the Corner League for his community and was a dedicated, talented member of the Granville United Football Club. Even after sustaining a knee injury during his playing days, his passion for the game never faded—he would still try to play despite the challenges —because passion always triumph.

A major highlight of Sydney’s life was in July 1987 when he met and started dating the beautiful Norma Corniffe. These two flaming hearts began beating as one on the 29th of July 1990, when Norma became his bride, his earth angel, his wife, his Jamaican Queen. Sydney was a devoted father to Kirk (deceased) and Shannon, and a loving stepfather to Marvin and Debbion. His love for his family was unwavering, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

In 2009, by faith, Sydney and his family migrated to the United States. He found spiritual home at the Real Truth SDA Church and, until the end, was a faithful member of Spring Creek SDA Church. While in America, Sydney worked tirelessly—at George W. Bush International Airport with a G2 staffing, as a driver and cabin cleaner—never shying away from providing for his loved ones. His Final Chapter Life’s journey was not without its challenges. On May 31, 2025, Sydney suffered a stroke, and his earthly journey came to an end on June 24, 2025. His legacy of love, faith, craftsmanship, and kindness remains a shining light.

He Leaves to Cherish His Memory: Wife, Norma Corniffe-James; Daughter, Shannon James; Mother, Louise Clarke; Siblings, Nephews, Nieces, and Other Relatives; Grandchildren, Dae-Jhanae, Zah-Mahria, Bebto, Kimani, Aleko, Marcus, Kiverta; Great Grandchild, Aleria; Stepchildren, Marvin and Debbion; Step-grandchildren, Micah, Zion, Isabella, Zachary, Ariyanna, Zuri and a multitude of other relatives and friends who loved him dearly.

Another chapter has been read in Sydney’s book. May his soul rest in perfect peace until the glorious resurrection day.

A visitation for Sydney will be held Sunday, July 27, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039. Followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 with the burial occurring at 3:00 PM.