Joseph James, Jr.

Joseph James Jr., gifted with insightfulness and discernment, a wise counselor with a servant leader’s heart, passed away on April 23, 2024.

Joseph, “Joe,” was born on April 18, 1949, to the parents of Enid A. James and Joseph James in Port Arthur, Texas. Joe’s late mother, Enid A. James and late uncle, Rev. Claude A. Ellis, planted the seeds of the importance of faith, community and service that would shape the foundation for Joe’s life.

Joe, the oldest of two children (Ronald was his younger brother) attended, played football for Lincoln High School and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur, Texas in 1967. Joe was in the first class, that included African American students, to graduate from the all-white school following the desegregation of schools during the Civil Rights Era.

Following high school graduation Joe entered the United States Army in June of 1967. As a Private First Class, Joe received the National Defense Service Medal, a Parachute Badge, a Certificate of Appreciation and was Honorably Discharged in June of 1970.

After the military, Joe relocated to New Orleans, LA, his mother’s birthplace, and began working for South Central Bell in the Bell Telephone System, that became AT&T, for over four decades. During this time Joe also attended Southern University of New Orleans.

Joe rose to become an Assistant Staff Manager Network Provisioning and retired overseeing data systems in Louisiana.  Joe was recognized with a Pursuit of Excellence Award as he “Lived the Values” of South Central Bell.

He exemplified the Corporate Values which “defined a new age of thinking and direction, allowing everyone to focus their energy on satisfying our customer’s needs. Sometimes that means going beyond our normal duties. Good is no longer good enough…only the best will do.”

Joe carried this spirt of service into the community assuming volunteer and leadership roles with the Telephone Pioneers. In 1992, he was recognized as the Gentilly Pioneer of the Year, became President and was recognized in 1995 by Region 16 as Project Director for “Kids Can Change the World!”

During this time, Joe met Yvette Hamilton, his soul mate and partner for nearly 30 years. They formed an enduring relationship totally dedicated to each other and filled with love.

But Joe’s passion for service touched a wide spectrum of people. His uncanny ability to see others for who they were, understand their needs, and offer insight, wisdom and guidance was unparalleled. He touched more lives than one can imagine forming lasting relationships.

Joe is survived by his partner, Yvette Hamilton, his son, Channing Warner (Tamara), grandchildren, Brooklin and Bricen, his brother, Ron (Renee) and nephews, Joshua, Jordan and Wahiid, other relatives and friends.