Heaven has gained another Angel. James T. English, age 95, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on July 3, 2026, at the Evangelical Home–Saline in Saline, Michigan.

Born on February 26, 1931, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Jim was the son of Ernest and Margaret (James) English. As a young man, he was an impressive athlete, earning recognition as a Golden Gloves boxer and playing football during his years at Central High School. It was there that he met the love of his life, Barbara Ingram. The two married in 1951 and shared 59 wonderful years together, raising three children: James "J.T.," Sheila, and Cheryl.

Following high school, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army. In 1955, he and Barbara made Ypsilanti their home. They were blessed with four grandchildren: Angela Curtiss, Derek Brown, Jason Armstrong, and Jasmine English.

Jim found success in several ventures throughout his career. He began by building garages before expanding into home construction through his business, Midway Construction. Later, he became a licensed real estate broker and, alongside Barbara, taught real estate classes to aspiring professionals. Together they also owned and operated Whittaker Oaks, a manufactured housing community, established in Ypsilanti in 2002.

Jim was a lifelong and devoted fan of the University of Michigan. His passion for the Wolverines was unmistakable—his wardrobe, blankets, and even his room reflected his maize and blue spirit, something that often became a conversation piece among the hospice staff who cared for him. His daughter, Sheila, and his dog, Lola, visited Jim often. The hospice nurses frequently said that the two of them were what kept him going. His impressive University of Michigan collection was one of his prized possessions, and he took great joy in passing it on to his great-grandsons, Roman and Ryker Daily.

Survivors include James "J.T" English Jr. and wife Brenda of Whittaker and daughter Sheila Brown of Livonia; grandchildren Derek Brown, Samantha Williams and Jasmine English; several great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara English; his daughter, Cheryl English; his parents, Ernest and Margaret English; his sisters, Mary Brown and Jane Daffron; his brother, Buddy English; his grandson, Jason Armstrong; his granddaughter, Angela Curtiss; and his great-granddaughters, Jessica Sandlin and Kelsey Brown.

The family will receive friends at Stark Funeral Professionals 4-7 pm Tuesday, July 14, 2026. A funeral service will be held 1 pm Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at the funeral home with visitation beginning at 12 pm. In keeping with his love of the Wolverines, both Jim's casket and vault will be Michigan. U-M attire is welcome and encouraged as a nod to Jim's undying love for the Wolverines. He will be laid to rest alongside his wife at Highland Cemetery.