James Richard Center

James Richard Center, age 63, of Montgomery, Alabama, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 19, 2022. A celebration of his life will be held at Alabama Heritage on Friday, December 23, at 10 a.m. with Jeremy Dickey officiating. Visitation will be at 9 a.m.

James, a native of Wetumpka, Alabama, was a proud veteran. He served the City of Montgomery as a firefighter for several years before working in the private sector for multiple engineering firms. He finished his career at the City of Montgomery in the Community Development Department, where he retired in October 2022. While he was proud of his service and his work, those who knew him would tell you he was most proud of his children and grandchildren, who affectionately called him “G.” He was loyal, kind, witty, a helper and loved by many. In his free time, you could find him in the stands or on the softball field practicing with “G’s angels,” as he lovingly called his grandchildren.

He is survived by his daughter, Cameron (Justin) Morgan; son Stephen Center (Ana Rojas); five grandchildren, who were truly the loves of his life, Mary Rutledge Morgan; Sarah James Morgan; Payton Center; Trevor Center; and Haley Michael Morgan; his siblings, dedicated and loyal sister, Jacqueline Bryan; Rodger Woodard; Frank E. Roselli (Paula); and little sister Amy Center; dedicated niece, Nan (Curtis) Hawkins; and favorite nephew, Eric (Stella) Harman. He is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ann Earley Stoliby, and father, Clarence Edgar Center.

His love and loyalty extended to several others who held a forever place in his heart, including his best friend Benita Center, family members Andrea Center and Russell Adamson, lifelong friends Danny (Amy) Hooks and Joey Bocchino.

James loved to laugh, loved his friends, and will forever be missed. Family and friends take comfort knowing they will see him again in Heaven.