Roland Jefferson James Sr.

Roland Jefferson James Sr. was born July 25, 1942 to the late Margaret A. Gibbs-James and Berkeley J. James Sr. in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Roland accepted Christ at an early age where he attended Mt. Teman A.M.E. Church in Elizabeth, NJ. Roland attended Thomas Jefferson High School where he excelled in football until he graduated in 1960. Upon graduation he joined the United States Air Force where he was afforded the opportunity to travel the world playing basketball and that’s where he was given the nickname “Sweet Rim” until he was honorably discharged in 1965. In 1967 Roland met the love of his life Maryleata Bolden and they were joined in holy matrimony on May 18, 1968. From this union, they had three children Roland James Jr., Kimberley James and Michelle James. Roland was employed with Supermarkets General Corporation, Woodbridge, NJ for 30 years. Roland as he would tell it was a legend in the warehouse for bringing home championships in softball and bowling. After his retirement from SGC, he picked up the mantle his mother left by becoming a school crossing guard for the Borough of Roselle for 15 years. According to his peers, parents and former students, Roland exemplified what is meant to put the safety of children in the forefront. Roland was a dedicated husband, father, son, brother and friend. He was often known as the life of the party. If you were in his presence, you were sure to receive a laugh as he was always joking around. Roland enjoyed playing softball, bowling, going to Atlantic City, watching his favorite professional sports teams: NY Yankees, NY Rangers, NY Jets, MN Vikings, and most of all his grandchildren. During his brief illness he enjoyed watching Hercule Poirot and NCIS. Roland is predeceased by his parents Margaret A. Gibbs-James and Berkeley J. James, Sr., his twin brother Ronald H. James, Sr. and baby brother Berkeley J. James, Jr. He leaves to cherish his devoted wife of 57 years Maryleata A. Bolden-James, one son Roland J. James, Jr. (Antionette) of Willingboro, NJ, two daughters Kimberley James of Union, NJ and Michelle A. James-Harris (Robert) of Fairburn, GA, five grandchildren Breanna Durham, Travis James, Joshua James, Cierra Harris, Jordan Harris, two bonus grandsons Quadree L. Brown and Cory J. Durham (CJ) and one bonus great grandson Aayad Brown, A close family friend Cory Durham whom he shared many family moments with over the years and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The James family would like to recognize a special thank you to Roland’s caregivers Shalonda Hall, Nadeen Lopez and Elizabeth Odoom whose love, dedication and compassion filled his spirit.