It is with heavy hearts that we bid a final farewell to James Summerville, affectionately known as ‘Piney.’ He died peacefully in Paterson, NJ, at the age of 99. Blessed with longevity, James served as the de facto historian for his hometown of Hackensack, NJ. He welcomed anyone wanting to sit and speak with him about past events or people.

James was a decorated military veteran and an excellent card player. He is remembered as a pleasant man who brought warmth to every room with his big smile and sense of humor. James was one of six children born to Lelia Fogg and James Somerville. At the age of 20, during the height of World War II, James enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served overseas in Europe as a Postal Clerk and Ambulance Driver.

James was recognized for his military service on several occasions. He received the Good Conduct Medal for his exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in active duty. He also earned the European - African - Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, recognizing those who served in the European Theater during WWII.

James was honorably discharged at the end of the war in 1945. He went on to lead a successful 30-year career with the United States Postal Service. His greatest accomplishment was becoming a dad to three daughters and one son. James cherished every moment spent with his kids, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

James is predeceased by his mother Lelia Fogg, father James Somerville, sisters Annie Louella Somerville Green and Rebecca Somerville Williams, brothers Lorenzo “Boots” Somerville, Fred “Tanny” Somerville, and Donald Somerville, daughter Leigh Ann Stevens, and grandchild Isaiah Somerville.

James is survived by his daughters Janet Summerville-Daniel and Tiffany Summerville, son David Summerville, and six grandchildren: Angela Baker, Joe Stevens Jr., Cozmere Summerville, Manyla Horne, Raymond Williams, and Casey Summerville. He leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Kaden Stevens, Jason Baker Jr., JoLeigh Baker, and Julia Baker, loving nieces and nephews, and many friends.

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