Our hearts are heavy as we announce the passing of James Reginald Leach, Jr., a beloved Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend after a courageous battle with cancer. James left this world on October 17th, 2024, at the age of sixty-seven.

James was born on July 12th, 1957, in Montclair, New Jersey, a state he often fondly spoke of. At an incredibly early age, James’ family moved to Los Angeles – specifically The San Fernando Valley, where he would go on to spend the rest of his life.

James, aka “Uncle Butch” was known for his unwavering kindness, generosity, and strength of character that touched any and everyone he met. James truly had an enthusiasm for life.

Early in life, James developed a love for sports but found his calling was with the martial arts. This was his life’s passion. All the way up to his passing, he treasured the joy he received from practicing his craft. Along with his love for martial arts, James also had a love for the outdoors, more specifically the sun and sand of the beach. James developed a passion for photography which allowed him to combine his love of nature, the mountains, sand and the surf. It was the love of scenic Malibu beach that contributed to a decision to attend Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, studying Mass Communication.

James was always the one that kept all the family members in touch with one another. No matter what city you lived in, if you were related to James, he always made it a point to stay connected with you. He never let life get in the way of anything that had to do with family. If it were something as simple as a dentist’s appointment you were going to, James would always follow up with a phone call that night to check in on how you were doing.

James’ other passion was music. From an early age, hearing the loud, booming music of Earth, Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder and Sly and the Family Stone coming from his bedroom are memories seared in our hearts.

James’ commitment to his work as well as his strong commitment to family was evident in everything he did.

James was deeply devoted to Parents’ Claudia Leach, and James Reginald Leach Sr., (deceased). His parents meant everything to him. He was also incredibly proud of his nieces and nephews and loved them like they were his own. Lovingly known as “Uncle Butch” to Henry Arnelle Jackson V, La Trisha Jackson, Vannessa Jackson, Arianne Jackson, Brianne Jackson, Henry Arnelle Jackson VI, Isabella Jackson, Rosalia Jackson, Demi Leach, Malcolm Leach, Miles Jones, and Sydney Jones, he has left an indelible mark in their hearts and lives. He genuinely loved them with all his heart.

Family and friends will remember that James had a unique ability to make others feel valued and loved, a gift he shared freely with those around him.

Always putting others first, James brought a sense of warmth and humor to even the most challenging of situations. Towards the end of his cancer battle, there were loved ones like Michelle Reyna who acted unselfishly when asked if she could drive James to an appointment when a family member could not. Childhood friends, Chuck Johnson along with Walter Peters and Elliott Peters were there up to the very end to offer their love and support. We know he would want us to thank you!

Following his passion and love for music, James joined SESAC in 2001. He founded the Los Angeles SESAC office where he could continue to foster what he loved most, advocating for songwriters. “James was proud to work alongside and support numerous talented affiliates, including Danja, Harvey Mason Jr., DJ Dahi, Ab-Soul, Gace Roland, Jacob Luttrell, and the legendary George Clinton. He served as President of the California Copyright Conference, the AIMP’s National Board of Directors, and the Living Legends Foundation Advisory Board. Before his time at SESAC, James left his mark at Famous Music, where he signed hitmaker Akon and established his own consulting firm, Leach Entertainment. His work as a music supervisor and consultant, including collaborations on the urban TV series New York Undercover and Magic Johnson’s, The Magic Hour, highlighted his creative versatility and passion for elevating music in every form. Early in his career, he worked at Michael Jackson’s esteemed ATV Music Group, working with the catalogs of icons like The Beatles, Sly & The Family Stone, and Michael Jackson himself.” ** (**SESAC 2024)

James is survived by his brothers Lawrence Leach, Todd Leach, and sisters, Dianne Jackson, Linda Jones, as well as brothers-in-law, Michael Jones, and Henry Arnell Jackson IV, cousins Michael Rogers, Joseph “Joey” Rogers Jr., Norman Rogers, Barry Rogers, and Tyrone Berger. With too many friends to mention, please hold onto your memories and cherish the time you spent with James.

James has given us all a lifetime of wonderful memories that we will hold on to and cherish forever. He will be remembered amongst family and countless friends for his generous spirit, his laughter, and his loving heart.

Though he is now in the loving and safe arms of God, his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/james-reginald-leach/obituary/

Copy