Robert McGree James of Virginia Beach, VA went to be with the Lord on January 12, 2024, “Bobby” a salt water baby, was born on the 222nd day of the year, August 10th, 1946 on a Saturday.
He was born to the late Alice Spellman James and Granville James of Virginia Beach, VA. He had 7 siblings, making him one of 8. He joined the church at an early age. Graduating from Princess Anne County Training School, all the while working as a caddy at the Princess Anne Country Club.
Shortly after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the armed forces and became a marine. Proudly serving his country for 4 years during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with 1 star, the RVN Campaign Medal with device 1960-, National Defense Service Medal and the Presidential Unit Citation & Honorary AO Medal. He fought his way back to the United States via Camp Lejeune; continuing to serve in the armed forces as a reservist. His life’s journey challenged him to battle various types of Agent Orange Cancers. As if this was not enough of a challenge, Bobby was exposed and consumed contaminated water from Camp Lejeune.
Robert James more often known as Bobby, Ben, BJ, Geezer, Daddy James or just Pops was charismatic, confident and a charming natural leader.
When we view the life of Robert “Bobby” James, we will see his reflections etched in the universe. He had a God given gift of acuity. He was able to see in others what they could not see in themselves. It could have been his contagious smile, thoughtful words or acts of kindness that made him a pillar to all his communities. In turn making him a compassionate friend to many.
In the late 60’s Billy, his eldest brother, inspired “Ben” to join him in Boston to drive cabs. While in Boston, he earned his associate degree from Roxbury Community College. Bobby worked for the Boston Water Department for many years. During this time, he also leased a cab. He had 2 employees and it was the beginning of his entrepreneurial endeavors. This venture would lead him to meet his wife of 53 years. Who knew that a cab ride would be the beginning of a lifelong love…
After dating for a while, he knew she would be his “lil Poochie.” unbeknownst to him, that was her childhood nickname. They had four children, Mark, Dex, Aris and only girl Aki-Tia James. “Thank you, my husband Lance Corporal Robert M James, for being my soulmate, as you courageously sacrificed your life for your country.”
The mental health issues caused by the horrors of war, lead him back to Virginia Beach. His eldest brother Billy, once again inspired and supported his journey to recovery. Followed by his brother, best friend, and partner in future business adventures. Larry James and Bobby James became a guiding force for family and many many friends. Bobby worked at the Princess Anne Country Club for many years. His career included detailing, valet, construction, and limo services, to name a few. He was a jack of all trades and master of “ALL”
Other than his parents Granville and Alice James, Bobby is preceded in death by his son Alvis Dexter James; sister Dorothy James; brothers Granville James “Billy,” Fitzgerald James “John” and one of his favorite dogs, Chocolate.
Left to cherish his loving memory is his wife Jane “Poochie” James; children, Mark James (GA), Greg James (MA), Aris James (KY) and Aki-Tia James (Cape Cod); grandchildren, Marquesha, Mark Jr, Dexter, Dekaris, D’Ari, Darrien, Timara, Nikolas, Antonia and Antonio; great-grandchildren, Bently James Sandifer and Lennox James; siblings, his life companion, caretaker and best friend Larry James, Audrey James, Joyce Anne James and JoEllen Riggins all of Virginia Beach, along with his brother in arms Eddie Elliott (Semper Fi); his cherished hunting dogs and a plethora of extended family members and friends.
Donations and acts of kindness may be made to the Robert “Bobby” James Scholastic & Education fund.
