Our beloved Myrtis Lee James, age 88, peacefully departed this world for heaven, with the love of her life by her side on June 9, 2019.   She was born on February 21, 1931 in Itta Bena, Mississippi to Lonzo and Beatrice Williams.  She married her love, Willie Lee James, in the small town of Morgan City, Mississippi on Sunday, April 17, 1949.  Myrtis and Willie celebrated 70 years of fruitful marriage, love and friendship Spring of 2019.

She "'Loved the Lord her God with all of her heart and with all of her soul and with all of her mind" Matthew 22:37.  Myrtis committed her life to the Lord at a young age, her love and trust in the Lord was her foundation.  She was honored as the longest attending member of True Light Missionary Baptist Church where she served faithfully for 60 years.  As long as she was able, she was devoted in her church attendance.  She enjoyed praying, laughing, fellowship and singing in the choir with her church family.  She often led the choir in singing "Heaven Is My Goal."

Myrtis possessed a childlike heart and demeanor.  Her love, sweet sense of humor and personality was contagious and captivating.  She maintained a humble and easy presence that gained the trust and hearts of countless friends, family and strangers.  Numerous lives have been impacted and changed by her constant reflection of Gods nurturing love, kindness, goodness and faithfulness.  Her unconditional gift of joyfulness, laughter, and joking, will never be forgotten and live on in her family.

Anyone that knew Myrtis knew that she loved shopping at Value City, thrift stores and garage sales.  Her kids and grandkids joining her on shopping adventures was always icing on the cake for Myrtis.  Many happy times and holidays were spent together in the kitchen with her children and grandchildren.  She was the go-to for cooking, injuries, illness and care of any kind. She knew no fear, always had a remedy and would do anything for her family!

Myrtis's love for her family was immeasurable! All who knew her understood that her family was her priority.  Her family was the most valuable and important part of her life in her time in this world.  With pride she consistently and boldly declared that her "family was everything."

Myrtis and Willie raised their 9 children and graciously loved and cared for countless more.  Myrtis leaves to cherish her wisdom, good counsel and memory: Beloved Husband, Willie Lee James Sr; children, Willie James Jr., Jesse (Gracie) James, Eula Mae Jenkins, Almeta Foster, Beatrice James, Clyde (Mary) James, Eileen Marie (Marvin) Patterson and Jacqueline Ann James.  She was graced with 20 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren and adored by a host of nephews and nieces.  Two special cousins Carrie Davis and Nallie (Diddy) Gilbert.

She was preceded in death by her mother Beatrice Smith; father Rev. Lonzo Williams; stepfather, Shack Smith; stepmother, Lucille Williams; younger siblings, Versey Williams, Augusta Nixon, Eula Mae Hicks; Infant daughter Velma James and precious son, Clarence Edward James

Myrtis affectionately known as Mommy, Myrt, Grandma, Silky Grandma and "Duke" will always be remembered as a praying woman of faith.  A true Proverbs 31 Woman.

A special thank you to those who tenderly and lovingly cared for Myrtis in her final days.  Sincere appreciation to Betty Nixon (niece), Pastor Marc and Qunita Williamson (cousins) for their unwavering devotion and care. Thank you to those who prayed, visited, called, texted, shared words of encouragement and beautiful memories. You are appreciated.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.rileyfuneralhome.com