James Harrell Blakely

James Harrell Blakely gained his wings on March 10, 2025. James was born in Stephens, Arkansas on August 5th, 1942, to the late Willie Levi Blakely and Lula Audria Blakely. James grew up in Stephens where he attended Oak Grove High School. James’ advanced intelligence was evident in high school when he was able to skip to a higher grade.

James soon met the love of his life Billie Grayer. They married in Altheimer, Arkansas and moved to Jackson, Michigan in 1968 to advance their careers. To this union two sons were born and they were blessed to celebrate 50+ years of marriage. While living in Jackson, James worked with Worthington Steel until he retired as a Foreman after 32 years.

During his life, James enjoyed traveling and a multitude of sports; He was very competitive. James was an avid golfer, a member of the Jackson Amateur Golf League and a participant in various golf tournaments throughout the country. James was also a highly skilled member of different bowling leagues where he bowled multiple perfect 300 games and traveled to compete in national bowling tournaments.

As a Christian, James was a faithful member of Lane Memorial CME church, a devoted husband, a caring father, a supportive grandfather and a fun filled great-grandfather. During the later part of Billie’s life, she became ill, and James moved into action as an advocate, protector, and caretaker until she departed this life. James’ love for Billie was unconditional and undeniable.

After retirement James continued to enjoy traveling and watching westerns like Gunsmoke and Bonanza, playing games like Bejeweled on his computer, and playing card games on his iPad to keep him entertained. James was also a life-long Dallas Cowboys fan. James was a “man of few words”, and has been described as funny, insightful, and always willing to help. James was a dedicated friend who built life-long relationships with friends who kept up with him throughout his life.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Billie. Six siblings; Thelma, Herschel, Dale, Ruby, Lula-Jean and Randy. James is survived by three siblings; James Ed (Mary) Blakely, Violene Courtney and Trudi (AG) Dodd. Two sons; Michael (Yvette Swint) Blakely and Mark (Vonetta) Blakely. Six Grandchildren; Brittney-Ann, Brintton-Anthony, Anthony (Kimberly) Blakely, Donovan, Maya and Arthur. Four great-grandchildren; Corbin, Jameson, Gabriel and Waylon. One aunt; Barbara (Ferris) Coppage. Numerous Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. Girlfriend; Flora Bradley. Four “Road Dogs”; Lawrence Green, Derrick Heard, Calvin “Tweet” Scroggins and Jimmy Hill.

James' family will receive visitors on Sunday, March 16, 2025 from 2-6 PM at Burden-Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home, 1806 E. Michigan Ave., Jackson, MI. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025 at the funeral home with family hour from 10 AM until the time of service at 11AM.

Please feel encouraged to use the online guest book to share memories and photos with the family.