Leon James Sr., age 78, departed from this life on August 1, 2026, at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital. Born on February 10, 1948, in Tuscaloosa, AL, he was the son of William James and Ida Mae Gardner.

Leon dedicated 45 years of his career to Thompson-McCully Company, now known as Cadillac Asphalt, before retiring in 2013. He was a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324 for 53 years, a reflection of his strong work ethic and commitment to his profession.

On August 11, 1972, Leon married the love of his life, Josephine, in Ypsilanti. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and caring for those around them.

Leon had a passion for playing poker and found great joy in gardening, fishing, hunting, and yard work. He was well known in every neighborhood he lived in for maintaining immaculate lawns and beautiful gardens. Music was another of his great loves, and he could often be found listening to the blues, especially the music of Tyrone Davis, Z.Z. Hill, Theodis Ealey, and B.B. King.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Josephine James of Ypsilanti; his children, Nakia James-Davis (Henry) of Ypsilanti, Erika James-Miller (Joseph) of Texas City, TX, and Leon James, Jr. (Angela) of Ypsilanti; his aunt, Mary Frances Walker of Ypsilanti; his brother, Donald Hargrove of Birmingham, AL; and a host of extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William James and Ida Mae Gardner-Hargrove; his brothers, Floyd Johnson and Willie Johnson, Jr.; as well as a host of aunts and uncles.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation 5-8 pm on Friday, August 7, 2026 at Stark Funeral Professionals. A family hour will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10 am followed by the funeral service at 11 am, officiated by Elder Marvin Miller. Leon will be laid to rest at United Memorial Gardens – Garden of Faith 2 pm Monday, August 10, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed toward the family via Zelle : Ljames2004@sbcglobal.net.