James W. Batts' Obituary
James Willie Batts, the oldest child was born on March 29, 1934 to Beatrice Batts and Louis Simms in Wilson, North Carolina. He stayed with his mother until age 7. Then moved in with his grandmother Mary Sims Sanders who raised and taught him how to cook. That’s where he got his love for cooking. Everyone called him Sims instead of Batts until 1964.
He attended primary school in Wilson and graduated from Springfield High School in Lucama, North Carolina. Springfield High School was one of the first African American schools in the Wilson County area.
At age 13 James started his own grass cutting business.
Then he worked several jobs in Wilson, North Carolina starting at Wilson TP Sanitarium as an orderly, Wilson Cab Company, Wilson Swift Company, Moore Paint Company and Wilson School District.
In 1959 James and his brother Leon wanted a change to seek greater opportunities, they moved to Long Island, New York. After a year and a half, they moved to Harlem. Where he was known as a Jack of All Trades working in various roles, including customer service at 2 New York City Airports. Later he moved to New Jersey to work at Philadelphia International Airport as a Skycap; where he also contributed to designing luggage wheel carts. His career reflected his dedication to serving others in meaningful ways. He worked at Gloucester Township Municipal in custodial services, always carrying out his duties with integrity and a strong work ethic.
In 1964 James met Rosa M Ward who he courted, dated and then became her “Sweetheart”. July 28, 2006 they finally said “I Do”, during their 60 years together 3 children were born Denise, Beatrice and David.
James continued his service-oriented work by becoming a volunteer firefighter and then their first African American Fire Commissioner with Lambs Terrace Fire Company in Sicklerville, New Jersey.
Being a man of faith James joined St James Christian Church in 1996, a year later he became Deacon Batts. James pursued his Biblical Studies at Gary Whetstone World Wide Ministries School. In 2005 at 77 he graduated dedicating his life to service and ministry under Pastor Linda Bizzelle.
James was a man of many talents and hobbies. He enjoyed bowling, cooking, dancing, Eagles Fan, fishing, hunting, Phillies Fan, photography, videographer, westerns and spending quality time with his loved ones. Known for his warm spirit and upbeat personality James’s favorite phrase was “I’m Super Fine!” Loving his chocolate milkshakes every time he got a chance to sneak one. He enjoyed his visits with his dear friends Michael Skillings and Rich Broome.
James Willie Batts lived a life of purpose and love, leaving an indelible mark on anyone who had the privilege of meeting him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and community. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Just a few nicknames: Jimbo, Mr. Yames, PopPop, Johnny McBrown, Old Man.
James was predeceased in death by his brothers Leland Newsome, Earnest D. Batts, sisters Hattie Delois Newsome, Rosa Lea Simms Sauls, Dazzella Horne, his son James Batts Jr. granddaughter Rosa M. Ward and grandson Caesar Jr.
James leaves to cherish his memory: a loving and devoted wife Rosa, Children: Denise Ward (Delaware); Beatrice Ward (New Jersey); David Ward (New Jersey); Angela Sims (Arizona); Arnold Blunt (New York); Shelia McDuffie (New York); Pamela George (Robert) (Georgia); Lewis Batts (Tasha) (Connecticut); Andre Batts (Shalette) (New York); his sister Margaret Batts; 19 grandchildren: LaNasha, Ontayai, Jalayla, Angel, Zytaisha, Briana, Isaiah, Marissa, Michael, Natasha, Tiffany A., Nina (Joseph), Courtney, Tiffany M, Katrenna, Demetri, Whitney, Arru, Aiden; 16 great-grandchildren: Nazir, Jasir, Oniya, Hamonii, Jaziyah, Armina, Alayiah, Zyarie, Zymoni, Rozyah, Alieem, Makhai, Mackenzi, Le’Michael, Judah, Jasiah.
James cherished his extended family including his cousin Caroline Jackson (Uncle Jack) and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Watson Funeral Home & Crematorium, 211 South Washington Street, Millsboro, DE 19966, where friends may call beginning at 2:00 PM. Interment will be private.
All those unable to attend the services are invited to join the service via livestreaming by visiting the following link: http://www.watsonfh.com/obituaries/permalink/11603838/LTWebcast
Please sign Mr. Batts Tribute wall at this site.
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