James Thomas Jennings, Sr. of Lithonia, Georgia, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, at the age of 79.

Born on November 25, 1945, in Hogansville, Georgia, James was the beloved son of the late Thomas Elijah Jennings and Lillie Mae Jennings. He was raised in a loving household alongside his siblings: Willie "Sonny" Jennings, Carrie Hall, Catherine Terrell, Doris Amar, and Walter "Big" Jennings.

At an early age, James accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at Springfield Baptist Church in Hogansville. His faith remained a cornerstone of his life.

James received his early education in the Troup County School System, graduating in 1963 as the Salutatorian of his class at Ethel W. Kight High School, where he also played trumpet in the school band. As a child, he was an avid basketball and baseball player, cultivating a lifelong passion for baseball. The love for baseball earned him the nickname, “Mitt”; which is one of his many nicknames.

After high school, James attended Fort Valley State College (now Fort Valley State University), where he majored in Social Science. He graduated in 1968 and formed lifelong friendships during his time there, remaining devoted to his alma mater throughout his life.

In 1968, James answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He served honorably during the Vietnam War, including time stationed in Germany, and was discharged in November 1971.

James married Gordia Kemp in 1972, and in 1977, they welcomed their daughter, Natalie Syvonne. Although their marriage ended, they continued to love and support their daughter together. In October 1983, James married his high school sweetheart, Carol Hall, and they shared a loving marriage until Carol’s passing in April 2023. Their union blessed them with two sons, James Thomas Jr. and Christopher Shawn. He passed down his passion for baseball to his sons, coaching them in the Cascade Youth Organization (CYO) in Southwest Atlanta.

Throughout his career, James worked diligently to provide for his family. He held managerial positions at Otasco and later worked at Bell South and Atlanta Gas Light.

A faithful servant of the Lord, James joined Mt. Olive Baptist Church in the 1980s, where he became a devoted member and an ordained deacon; eventually becoming the Chairman of the Deacon Board. His unwavering faith and dedication to his church community were central to his life.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Lillie Mae; his brothers Willie (Sonny) and Walter (Big); sisters Catherine and Doris; nieces Chantris (Pam) and Cathy; nephews Michael and Reginald; his wife, Carol; and his son, James Jr.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his sister, Carrie Hall (Phillip); his daughter, Natalie Jennings; his son, Christopher Shawn; daughter-in-law, Robin; grandson, Lennox; and a host of loving sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

James will be remembered as a loving father, devoted husband, proud veteran, and steadfast servant of God. His kindness, faith, and unwavering commitment to his family and community will remain an inspiration to all who knew him.  

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