Andrew Jerome James

Andrew Jerome James best known as Andy was born in Mobile Alabama on November 26th, 1955 to Mary Frances and Leo Samuel James Sr. Born into a family of musicians, Andrew took on the gift at an early age. He had a deep passion for music and found joy in playing the drums in church, as well as the guitar. In his younger years, he shared his love of music with close friends in a group called Captain Crunch & The Funky Bunch, creating memories that brought laughter and meaning to his life.

A proud graduate of Joaquin Miller High School in Reseda, California, Andrew valued education and determination. One story that reflects his character is the morning he missed the school bus but chose to walk all the way to school wearing out his shoes along the way simply because he didn't want to miss a day. That quiet determination stayed with him throughout his life.

Andrew's journey with the Special Olympics began in high school, where he developed a love for sports-especially bowling and tennis, which became his favorite. Through the Regional Center and Special Olympics programs, he earned many awards and medals throughout his life, making his family incredibly proud.

Above all, Andrew was a devoted father, grandfather, and loving big brother. He would do anything to make his family happy and always looked out for those he loved. He will be remembered as a protector and a source of comfort-like the time he held his sibling's hand on a walk and bravely pointed out a snake to keep them safe. Andrew never allowed his disability to define him or limit the life he lived. He embraced life fully, with strength, joy, and love. His favorite colors, sky blue and baby blue, reflected the calm and warmth he carried within him.He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Andrea Mon'a James, aka Angel and his granddaughter, Amaya Mary James. As well as his siblings Mona Lisa McDonald (Daniel McDonald) Sharrie Lightner (Kelvin Lightner), Kimberly James, Peter James, Darlene James Turner (Richard Scotty Turner), Sylvia James, Jerome Mauldin, Jeffrey Mauldin, Achanpreanne James, Aubreanna James, Alayzha James, Amaunie James, Azulae James a host of nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.

Andy is proceeded in death by his parents

Leo Samuel James Sr, Mary Frances James, and brothers Giovanni James, Sylvester James, and Leo James Jr.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his legacy of love, strength, and devotion will live on forever.

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure,

You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.