James Berle Standifer

James Berle Standifer AKA “Jimmie” was born in Portland, OR to Reverend Floyd Lee, Sr. and Genela P. Standifer.

The family moved to Seattle, WA in September of 1945, where Jimmie attended public schools and graduated from Garfield High School, class of 1958. He was an outstanding athlete at Garfield, making the school’s Hall of Fame. After graduating he went on to play football for Pasadena Community College.

In 1962 he enlisted in the Washington State National Guard. Finishing his military career as an E4; Medical Specialist in 1968. While in the National Guard he met the love of his life Gloria Jean O’Neal while she was visiting relatives in Seattle, marrying her six months later. In May of 1965 their only child Sherryl Lynn Standifer was born.

In 1968 he began working for the City of Seattle as a truck driver. Eventually being promoted to the sewer division, a position he loved and was passionate about. During his illustrious 35 year career he was awarded Employee of the Month several times and given the Golden Key to the city. He retired as the Manager of Field Services, Sewer Utility, Utilities Division in 1995.

Jimmie had many hobbies and social connections. He was one of the founding members of Kingsmen Social Club in 1965. as well as Seattle’s first African American Antique Car Club, the ” Old Rides”. They participated in countless car shows and parades around the region. After the death of his wife Gloria in 1981, he became the first father to fully participate in Jack & Jill of America, supporting his daughter as a debutante. He loved to listen to jazz music, especially his brother Floyd’s music. He also enjoyed gardening, and was a true DIY homeowner. Jimmie was a social butterfly who never missed an opportunity to throw a party at his home, especially to celebrate Seafair.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents, wife Gloria, brothers Floyd Jr, Alonzo, and sister Katheryn. He is survived by his daughter Sherryl Standifer- Williams (Calvin), grandchildren James Malvar Jr., and Zahria Williams, great granddaughter Jackson Malvar-Daniel , sister Devaughne J Cunningham and a host of family. He leaves behind his loving companion Sandy Browne, and closest friends Felton Hall and Ronald Smith as well as many classmates, including his Old Rides comrades.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the many friends and family who have given us support and comfort during this time of loss.

“Thank you “ to all the staff at Homecoming Adult Family Home; Consejo Mendoza, Celia Mendoza, Maria Isidro, Miriam Filoteo, and Amparo Pastoral. Your genuine care, love and support was amazing and priceless. We were blessed to have had you “Angles” take care of our father.

You showed us Courage, Comfort, and Compassion which carried all of us through the last 2 years of his life.

We love you!

Order of Service

Processional: Pastor William Jones

Prayer: Pastor William Jones

Song Selection: Rochelle Shinoda, niece

Speakers: Ronald Smith & Felton Hall

Reading of the Obituary: Zahria Williams, granddaughter

Eulogy & Benediction: Pastor William Jones

Acknowledgements: Sheila Guy-Snowden

Family Words

Recessional: Sheila Guy-Snowden

Tribute to my Father and Grandfather

That man is a success –

who leaves the world better then he found it;

Who has never lacked

appreciation of earth’s beauty

or failed to express it;

Who looked for the best in others

and gave the best he had.