James Earl Fason was born on August 23, 1946 in Fairfield, AL.  He transitioned this life peacefully at the age of 71 on Saturday, January 13, 2018. He was the youngest sibling of five children born to the late Charlie and Ruthie Henry Fason.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Cora Fason Hicks, Susie Fason Rembert, Charlie Fason and Bobby Fason and his grandson, Derrick D’Juan Williams.

He received his early childhood education in the public schools of Jefferson County and graduated from Fairfield Industrial High School in 1964.  He played baseball in high school and was an outstanding left-handed pitcher.  After completing high school in Alabama, James moved to Jacksonville, FL in the fall of 1964 to continue his post-secondary education at Lincoln Business College.  After graduating, he began a long successful career in management with Jim Walter Paper, Inc.  He worked as an employee of the company through several acquisitions until his retirement after 42 years of service.  His loyalty, dedication and hard work earned him the respect of many in the workplace and in his community.  

While attending Lincoln Business College in Jacksonville, James met and fell in love with the beautiful Shirley McKenzie and they married on March 23, 1966.  From this union a beloved daughter, Tammie Lavonne Fason was born.

James gave his life to Jesus Christ and was an member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Middleburg, FL.  He served actively in the ministry as an Usher, Trustee and Pastor’s Aide.  He loved God, his family and sharing time with friends.  His love for sports continued throughout his life. He was an avid football fan and enjoyed bowling as a hobby.  His favorite football teams were the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Oakland Raiders. 

James leaves to cherish his memories, his devoted and loving wife Shirley of 52 year, beloved daughter Tammie Fason Williams and son-in-law Eric Williams; grandchildren: Eric Cortez’ Williams (Ashley) and Amber Danielle Williams, Norfolk, VA.; great-grandchildren: Eric Cortez’ Williams, Jr., Erica Ty’tiana Williams, Jakori Khalil Williams and Jordan Janise Henry; sister-in-laws: Evelyn Gant, Johnnie Mae Johnson and Jeanette Rice of Tampa, FL and Twanda Andrades of Plant City, FL.; brother-in-laws: Curtis McKenzie and Adam McKenzie of Tampa, FL.; special cousins, Columbus Dillard of Moreno Valley, CA, and Dicie Perkins of Harvey, IL; god-daughter Shalyndell McKenzie (Billy) and a host of nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and friends.

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