Cover photo for James Tinsley, Sr.'s Obituary
James Tinsley, Sr. Profile Photo

James Tinsley, Sr.

July 16, 1931 — January 19, 2019

Mr. James Albert Tinsley, Sr. was born July 16, 1931 in Camphill, Alabama to Walter Sr. and Ida Tinsley. James was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle and Friend. His work was done when God called him home Saturday, January 19, 2019 at his son’s residence. Age 87 years.

James worked for the General Motors Corporation Grey Iron Foundry for twenty-six years before retiring. He was a member of St. Paul Baptist Church for fifty-five years, where he served in the choir and male chorus for many years until he became ill. He loved to sing and worship God.

James was the most loving and friendly person you could ever meet. If you needed a piece of candy, James was your man. He always had candy to share. His friends and co-workers knew him as “High Pocket.” He loved to hang out with his family, going shopping and out to eat. His favorite place was Denny’s. He also enjoyed going to the Marie E. Davis Center and McDonald’s every day, where he loved spending time with his friends playing cards. He also liked traveling and going to the casino with his buddies. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

James loved and missed his wife “Red” so much. On Saturday, January 19, 2019, James was reunited with his wife, Cleotha Tinsley; parents, Walter and Ida Tinsley; brothers, Walter Jr., Haywood, Hubert Tinsley; sisters, Fannie Mae Carter, Elizabeth Young, Agnes Roberson, Martha Steward; great-granddaughter, Mariah Carroll.

James leaves to carry on his legacy three daughters, Leslie Kay Brown, Vanessa (John) Scott, Crystal Tinsley; three sons, Jeffrey, James (Asia), Andre John (Jill) Tinsley; grandchildren, Charlotte Brown, Carlton Tinsley, Loukia, John II (Sara) Scott, Monquez, Montrell Tinsley, Shavonn, Percy Butterfield, Kamaria (Tristan) Richmond, Dayna (DeSean) Morris, Valencia, Alexis, Sidney, Andre Jr., Ariel Tinsley; sister, Barbara (John) Burton; five brothers; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends, including special friends Audrey Savage, Robert Kelly and special cousins Audrey Redeemer and Woodrow Kellum.

The family would like to express special thanks to Covenant healthcare, Samaritas, special nurse Christina and CNA Dianna.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James Tinsley, Sr., please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services