James Roland Sallee

JAMES R. SALLEE was born on December 3, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the union of Frank and Frances Sallee. James was one of ten children. His parents and his sisters Christina Flonnoy, Linda Williams, and Gloria Sallee-Rice preceded James in death.

As a youth, he earned the nickname that he was affectionately known as Foxx, from sneaking around the neighbor’s house and stealing her freshly baked goods. At the age of 19, James met Betty Jean Murray, who would later become his wife. Unbeknown to James and Betty, both of their fathers, were co-workers at the Ohio Foundry and hunting buddies. Despite the challenges that accompany a 62-year relationship, James and Betty always migrated back to each other. James always proclaimed that he picked Betty; she didn’t pick him. James loved his family and enjoyed life to the fullest; he also loved sweets and seafood, fine clothing, luxury vehicles, and traveling domestically and abroad. Although James reveled in the material side of life, he was spiritual and always lent a helping hand to those in need. James gave his life to Christ and was baptized by his uncle Bishop McMurray at the Pentecostal Church of Christ in Cleveland, Ohio, before becoming a member of the New Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Blanton Harper Jr.

Over the years, James evolved from a sharp-dressing jet-setting entrepreneur into a devoted husband, father, friend, and sponsor to fellow Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) members. James was 33-years sober and loved to share his story and support those that wanted to overcome alcoholism. James had a witty sense of humor, several catch phrases, and a contagious smile. James will be sorely missed; our only consolation is that he is walking with the Lord.

James went home to be with the Lord, December 2, 2020, a day before his 82nd birthday. James is survived by his loving wife, Betty Murray-Sallee, who gave her all, taking excellent care of him for the last five years of his life; his daughter Dr. Traci Washington (Lorenzo – Shreveport, La.), son Michael Thomas (Allysa – Uniontown, OH), daughter Kristen Sallee (Windy - Alpharetta, GA), son Jeffrey Sallee (Ronda - Dayton, OH), son James Sallee (Youngstown, OH), and four grandchildren (Logan, Evianna, Jaxson, and Ashlee). Seven siblings also survive James: Ethel Simms (Fremont, OH), Joyce McIntosh (Melvin), Frank Sallee Jr. (St. Paul, MN), Raymond Sallee (Josie), Leroy Sallee (Charissa), Cecil Sallee (Louisburg, North Carolina), Florence Steed (Fred-Dayton, OH); and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.