Dr. Jesse James passed away on January 18, 2016, at his residence. He was born on January 26, 1937, in Haynesville, Louisiana, and is a graduate of Texas Southern University where he attained a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Mathematics. In 1965 he earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biochemistry from the University of Texas, Medical Branch in Galveston. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Dr. James came to Knoxville College in 1965 as a Chemistry Professor. During many summers, he worked as a researcher at ORNL, Colgate Palmolive, and UT. Dr. James is survived by Sylvia, his wife of 56 years, and 5 children, 7 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. Viewing will be held on Monday, January 25, 2016 from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Church on Cedar Bluff Road. Father Michael Woods is officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Ridge Memorial Gardens. Services to conclude with dove release and blanket presentation.
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My Hero
You held my hand
When I was small
You caught me when I fell
You’re the hero to my childhood
And my later years as well
And every time I think of you
My heart still fills with pride
Though I’ll always miss you Dad
I know you’re by my side.
In laughter and in sorrow
In sunshine and through rain
I know you’re watching over me
Until we meet again.
May God continue to bless you and your family.
Sorry for your lost.
So sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. James. Well respected and committed professor of Knoxville College during my time in 1980-85. May God bless his family.
Reggie Mosley
Mrs Sylvia James and Family,
I’m so sorry about the passing of Dr. James. He was so smart and friendly. I had the privilege of meeting him when he came to Vine to pick you up from work. I know he will be missed by you and others. I pray that the peace of God will be with you.
Gail Cox
DR. JAMES A GREAT FRIEND AND FATHER-FIGURE HE WILL BE MISSED, WE WILL ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL HAVING YOU IN OUR LIVES. WE LOVE YOU
Thinking of all of you this week as you celebrate the life of Dr. James. I had the good fortune to work with him at Knoxville College for 4 years in the 90s. He was utterly devoted to KC and his students. May God give him rest and you comfort.
I was a freshman student in his inorganic chemistry class,in order to prepare for a future career to practice medicine. He open my mind up toso much more in concept which has followed me through my professional life.
Thanks so much to his influence !
My sympathies are extended to the James family. He was a great man with a great heart. He will be missed.
Vickie Peoples McCreary
Class of 71
We grieve with the James family for a sensitive and caring friend. He was challenging and a people person to his students, something that is uniquely found in some college professors. He led several students to achieve professionally in the field of Chemistry, and they hold national positions and honors to this day.
He is loved by his family and friends because he has always had great lasting impressions on people.
He will be certainly missed by the Knoxville community.
I was a student at Knoxville. Dr. James was a great teacher and role model for us. My condolences to the family.
We are grieving with you, the James family, during this very difficult time. When we came to Knoxville in the early 1970’s, you treated us as family and our relationship has with stood the test of time and distance. Jesse is a tremendous lost to his family, friends and the academic commnity and he will be deeply missed. Sylvia, our thouhgts and prayers are with you and the family. We have lost a tremendous family member and friend but his impact will be felt for a long time by those whom he has touched with his various gifts.
One of my most interesting professors at KC and my favorite man of Phi Beta Sigma. Dr. James is one of a kind. He will be remembered.
We grieve with the James family for a sensitive and caring friend.
Dr James was challenging and a people person to his students, something that is uniquely found in some college professors. He taught several students to achieve professionally in the field of Chemistry, and they hold national positions and honors to this day.
He will be certainly missed by the Knoxville community.
Dr James was my mentor and truly one of a kind. Thank you and rest in peace for a life well lived!
Rest in Peace Dr James!
It is with deepest sorrow to learn that Dr. James is now at rest. He was an exceptional supervisor, mentor, and friend. He taught me more than he even realized. He has been missed by Knoxville College for some time now; however, his legacy lives on in our hearts and minds.
Sylvia and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We pray that God give you comfort. God’s blessings be on Jesse and his wonderful family.
Dr. James was a Knoxville College landmark that shows the sacrifice of ones self for the betterment of others. I want to Thank You! Ron Jackson Class 1977 Cleveland, Ohio. Having over 35 years in the Water Industry in the State of Ohio. Our prayers go out to your family from mine. God Bless.
Dr. James was an inspiration for me while I was a student at Knoxville College (1970-1974). I will remember him in my heart when I think of giving people. He sacrificed a lot of personal glory for the students at Knoxville.
I love you Dad!