Deacon Ernest James was born Saturday, August 30, 1941, in Clarendon County. He was the son of the late William James and Gussie Green.  On November 21, 2024, Ernest gained his heavenly crown at MUSC Health Florence Medical Center in Florence, SC surrounded by his loving family.

Ernest James married Lily Mae Lang 65 years ago. They shared 3 children, 4 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. They were many people's favorite couple.

Ernest James was a licensed Locksmith by trade. His skill and expertise were known among his community.  He found great joy in talking to people about the Bible. Ernest was a charitable man. He gave out free turkeys every Thanksgiving. When someone needed transportation, he never hesitated to take anyone anywhere they needed to go.

Ernest James was a god-fearing man. He was a member of First Corinthian Baptist Church and Fordham Gospel Missionary. He was an ordained Deacon for over 40 years. He was ordained at First Corinthian Baptist Church in NYC under Pastor Porter. He was a part of the Prison Ministry program and taught Sunday School for many years.

His grandchildren's favorite memories of him include all the family vacations and their grandfather teaching them their first prayer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lily Mae James (Carrie Lou Lang),  youngest daughter,  Michelle Yolanda Lang, and his siblings, Annie Lou Goodson, Rebecca Simpson, Gussie Lee Simon-Kennedy, and William James Jr.

Those left to cherish his memories are his Stepson, Johnnie Lang of SC; a daughter, Mary Lou Lang of SC; Four grandchildren, Monique Lang, Michael Lang, Maya Lang, and Tahj Trumpler; a sister, Janie James of NC; a sister-in-law Annie Mae James of MD along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other beloved family and friends.