Steve W. James

STEVE WILSON JAMES (known as “Stevie” to his siblings) was the sixth of seven children born to William and Alma James in San Diego, CA on April 22, 1953. He accepted Christ at a young age at Greater Jackson Memorial C.O.G.I.C. under the leadership of the late Bishop J.A. Blake, Sr. He faithfully attended Sunday School, participated in the youth ministry, and sang in the youth choir.

Steve attended Gompers Middle School and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1971, where he played clarinet in the band. By the time he reached high school, his writing began to blossom. He was always a gifted writer and a talented artist. He went on to further his education at San Diego City College. He enjoyed sports, played Pop Warner football and frequently played three-on-three basketball games in the neighborhood park with his brothers, Tommy and Gary.

In the late 80’s, Steve became a member of Faith Chapel C.O.G.I.C., under the leadership of Bishop Roy Dixon, where he was later ordained as a Deacon. He participated in the men’s choir, Sunday School, served as Editor/Writer for the church newsletter, and participated in the “Brotherhood” men’s ministry on Saturdays. Steve was a steward of the Word of God and was passionate about teaching, serving with diligence in the Laymen’s School of Ministry.

While at Faith Chapel in 1993, he met his beloved, Sharon Theresa Edmonds. They were united in marriage in the Faith Chapel Prayer Garden on September 23, 1995. Steve became stepfather to Theresa’s four children: Karena, Gerald (JJ) Jr., Corey, and Christina.  Steve and Theresa enjoyed the beach, sitting by the water, taking cruises, walking frequently in Rohr Park, serving in the church, and building God’s Kingdom.

Steve also enjoyed being a part of Branches Christian Writers, founded by Mother Marjorie Hammons, in 1996. He later authored and published a book of poems, entitled “The Well” in 2013 and was in the process of writing his second book of poetry.

In 2011, he became a partner at the City of Hope International Church under the leadership of Bishop Terrell Fletcher. He remained consistent in his service to the church and participated regularly in several ministries: Dean of Christian Education, Deacon Board Chairman, Armor Bearer to Bishop Fletcher, Security Team, teaching, and evangelism outreach.

Steve had a hunger for the Word of God and was fascinated by End-Time prophecy.  He enjoyed studying the Scriptures and would often say he had “the burden of the Berean”. He was also a profound thinker, passionately sharing his political commentary; and enjoying spirited debates on social media.

Steve began his career working at his father’s business “James Auto Detailing” in San Diego. Years later, He was employed at Teledyne-Ryan, as an Assembler for many years and worked at Spectrum as a Detention Officer for 15 years. He worked until June of 2018, until his health declined.

In 2014, Steve was diagnosed with colon cancer, which spread to his liver and one lung. Steve was a proponent of alternative holistic treatments and chose natural methods over traditional Western medicine.

On Sunday, September 2, 2018, Deacon Steve James departed this life surrounded by his wife, family and friends. He fought a good fight, always keeping faith in God’s promises, while encouraging others to do the same.

He now joins his father and mother, William & Alma James; brother, Willie Curtis James; sister, Marian Fulton; stepson, Gerald Jr. (JJ) Edmonds; and nephew, Stephen; who all preceded him in death.

Steve leaves to cherish his memory: Theresa, his loving and devoted wife of 23 years; three stepchildren: Karena (Arvin) Brown, of San Diego, CA; Lt. Colonel Corey (Amy) Edmonds, of Clinton Township, MI; and Christina Edmonds, of San Diego, CA; four siblings: Thomas (Helen) James, of Los Angeles, CA; Glynda St. Cyr of Oakland, CA; Verlen James of San Francisco, CA; and Gary (Valerie) James, of San Clarita, CA; brother-in-law: Al Fulton; Nieces and Nephews: Stephanie, Dimitri, Rodney, Tamahra and Jazlyn; Great Nieces and Nephews: Leahanna James, Brendon Golston, Devin Golston and Nicholas Golston; three spiritual children: Lascelles Simmonds, Michelle Odom and Minister Kalyn Dean; two Godchildren: Mayasa Odom and Messiah Clay; ten grandchildren: Malcolm, William, Jasmine, Amber, Jerzey, Gerald “Trey” III, Jamorris, Amrey, Amyla and Coda; and a host of relatives and friends.

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