A born and raised Brooklyn man he served with NYPD and was in Tower 2 the morning of September 11, 2011. He helped many escape with their lives and went on to continue serving with many commendations before retiring and moving to Arizona.

James was outgoing and loud, but always made sure those around him felt safe and loved, even if he didn't know them. He made it a point to put family first and lived the same way.

Survived by 4 children:Zach and Jessica(mother Rhonda) Shelby and Lauren (mother Elaine), 10 Grand Children, 1 Great Grand child, his mother Bethany, and his brother Joseph.