James Nathaniel Burgess

James Nathaniel Burgess was born in Port of Spain, Trinidad to Preston and Josephine Forde Burgess on October 7, 1933. James lost his mother at the tender age of eight years old, and his father drifted in and out of his life, leaving james and his siblings to fend for themselves. As young wanderers with little direction, he and his siblings may or may not have "borrowed" mangoes and over fruits to survive and may or may not have caused mischief in the neighborhood. Neighbors would look after the boys in the best way they could by providing some extra bread every time they baked (especially sweet bread, his favorite.) He then returned to his community the same love that once nurtured him.

James was an avid reader and a literary connoisseur, deeply versed in history, literature, and current events. A lifelong seeker of knowledge, people often wondered if he held an advanced degree. James received a scholarship to pursue his dream of studying literature in London. Unfortunately, he was unable to obtain the necessary documents to leave the country. He continued his pursuit of knowledge, and this passion for reading ignited a similar love for literature in his daughters, who remain avid readers to this day.

To make his way in the world, James worked a series of odd jobs until he discovered his passion for plumbing. As an apprentice, he honed his skills and eventually earned his license, initially working for the government and later advanced to leadership roles. He took pride in his craft; his biggest brag was famously repairing a toilet for Princess Margaret during her visit to Trinidad. More importantly, plumbing provided him with a steady income, allowing him to purchase land and build a home for his wife, Glenda Belgrave, creating a legacy of permanence.

It was in the hospital where he volunteered that James met Glenda Belgrave, and she would become the love of his life. Their union lasted 67 years, until her passing in January 2023. Through Glenda, James joined the Seventh-day Adventist faith, and together they were married at the Stanmore Avenue Adventist Church in Port of Spain, Trinidad. James threw himself into youth programs, becoming a Pathfinder and eventually a Master Guide. To their union were born five children: Lystra (deceased), Mark (deceased), Lyndianne, Lester, and Leslie.

Though reluctant, James followed Glenda's dream of moving abroad. They left Trinidad for New York, joining Janson Place SDA Church in Brooklyn. There, he continued his Pathfinder work. His love for music eventually led him to join several chorales at the church and community choirs, where he found joy in blending his talents with others. Additionally, James had a deep appreciation for musicales and the arts, further adding to his vast repertoire of knowledge.

Eventually, they settled in Huntsville, Alabama, again reluctantly on this part, where he would spend 40 years of his life, faithfully serving the First Seventh-day Adventist Church as a faithful member, choir member, Elder, First Elder, Sabbath School teacher, and Stewardship Leader. He absolutely loved his community at First SDA Church. He gave countless bible studies and led many to baptism. His most infamous role was stewardship leader, where on Sabbath mornings, he would share wonderful and sometimes not-so-gentle poignant stories of why members should be tithing. Not always, but he was sometimes met in the parking lot by a member who do not appreciate his candor. He was not just a member but a cornerstone of the community.

James Nathaniel Burgess made history as the first Black master plumber in Alabama, achieving his certification after moving to the state. He served with distinction as the lead plumber at Oakwood College, where he became a guiding light for generations of students, especially international ones. Throughout his many years in the Physical Plant at Oakwood College, James made an indelible impact on the lives of young adults. His compassionate nature shone through as he generously offered jobs to students, inviting them into his home and embracing many as cherished lifelong extended family, and many became adopted sons and daughters of the Burgess family. He was revered as a mentor and leader, embodying kindness, humility, and generosity. James created a safe and nurturing environment, ensuring that every student felt valued and supported on their journey. His legacy of mentorship and unconditional support continues to resonate within the community he served.

James was also a man of passions outside of work and faith. James absolutely loved bowling, especially with his friends from First Church, where laughter rolled as of the pins. He followed sports closely, to his kids' surprise, watched Entertainment Tonight, and knew all the latest celebrity news. He absolutely loved fast food!! Often sitting in his car eating it fast, then going in for a homemade lunch prepared by Glenda (she knew, she always knew.)

On August 19, 2025, James Burgess passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy as rich as his love for his family, faith, and learning. He's now at rest with his wife, Glenda, his children, Mark and Lystra, his brother Alfred, Otto, Albert, and Horace, and his adopted grandson Anthony, who preceded him in death.

He leaves behind his children: Lyndianne Burgess, Leslie Jackson (Clyde), and Lester Burgess (Lara). Adopted daughters Ann Marie Francis (Clifton) and Grace Arnold (Mark). He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Frempong; his grandchildren, Nethanya Salandy, Josie Jackson, Theodore Thompson III, Jared Jackson, Alexander Thompson, Genesis Burgess, Marc Anthony Burgess, and Shanton Banks; and his fourteen great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and those who called him dad.

A man of candor and curiosity, of discipline and humor, James Burgess lived with resilience, taught by example, and loved without measure. His silver cord has been loosed and his golden bowl broken, but his memory remains, a song, a story, a scripture, a smile.