Elaine James

Deaconess Elaine James was born on July 21, 1956, to James Garland and Mary McGee Jewell in Indianapolis, Indiana. Elaine attended George W. Sloan School #41 and Crispus Attucks High School, graduating in 1974. She was the first recipient of the Julian D. Coleman Leadership Award. After graduating from high school, Elaine attended Martin University, graduating with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. Deaconess Elaine loved the Lord and people. She studied her bible religiously, taught Sunday school, was on the Board of Trustees, and made many other contributions to the growth of her church. Elaine was described by others as kind, loving, loyal, caring, compassionate, and forgiving. Elaine was one of the most empathetic persons you could ever meet, she never met a stranger and would give anyone the shirt off of her back. Elaine had an entrepreneurial spirit, opening her business - Twice As Nice, a children's clothing assignment store, selling Mary Kay Cosmetics, and Avon, and was a licensed nail technician. Elaine excelled at many accomplishments. Her greatest accomplishment was the birth of her two daughters, Raina and Robin who she loved dearly and devoted her life to as their mother. Elaine worked for 24 years at the Marion County Sheriff's Department as a Deputy Correctional Officer, where she was recognized with numerous awards during her tenure. Elaine was instrumental in starting the "Scared Straight" Program at the MCSD, which focused on keeping youth out of trouble and out of jail. Elaine retired from the MCSD in 1998. Elaine married the love of her life, Saul Otis James in 1997, Saul preceded Elaine in death in 2016. Deaconess Elaine was a member of Good Shepherd Missionary Baptist Church. Elaine was a member of Prince Hall Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, Past Grand Worthy Matron. Alpha Grand Court, Heroines of Jericho, Pride of Composite #2, Past Most Ancient Matron. Persian Court #24 Daughters, member. Guild Gethsemane Guild #1, Past Princess Captain. Deaconess Elaine James departed this life at the age of 65 years and 11 months. She passed away peacefully at I.U. North Hospital surrounded by her loving family and friends. Elaine was preceded in death by her loving parents, husband, and great­ granddaughter Bianca. Elaine leaves to cherish and honor her memory: her daughters - who she was extremely proud of all their accomplishments, Raina Renee Smith (Clarence), Robin Rachelle Bell (Robert), These 2 sons-in-law who shared a mutual love for her and were instrumental in her healthcare. Her loving brother, Deacon James G. Jewell Jr. who she shared a very special bond with. They were inseparable, spending much of their life together at home and at church. Elaine loved her brother James - fondly known as Junior and enjoyed cooking for him and going out to restaurants together. Where you saw Elaine, you saw Junior, no matter who else she was with. Her very devoted stepdaughter, Kim Y. Cullens (Angel), Seven sisters, Pamela Jones, Victoria Sharp, Phyllis J. Whitfield (Leonard), Deborah J. Hutchison, Mayola Brownlow(twin), Estella M. Keith (Paul), Karen L. Jewell. Elaine had a special bond with each sister. Eight grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.