Sunrise

February 2, 1945

Sunset

March 5, 2026

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Leona Emelda James was born on February 2, 1945, to the late Henrietta Horsford and George James, and was the twelfth of thirteen children in a large and loving family.

In early 1969, Leona migrated to the United States, where she began a new chapter of life filled with determination and hope. She was a hardworking woman who took pride in the work she did throughout the years. She eventually became an employee at St. Luke's Hospital from which she retired.

Leona was known for her kind and generous spirit. She had a deep love for her family, especially her nieces and nephews, whom she adored.  One of the traditions she cherished most was her annual Christmas trip to Antigua, a time she looked forward to each year with great excitement, always thinking of ways to bring joy to her family. Leona also shared a lifelong friendship with Daisy Toppin, a bond that began in the third grade and continued throughout their lives.

Above all, Leona's heart belonged to her family. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her brother, Errol James, and her sister, Roma Hill; her beloved niece, Aloma Shaw; her devoted daughter, Jeneil, and son-in-law, Ron, who lovingly cared for her as her health declined; and her treasured grandchildren, Kasmira, Ronin, and Randall, who brought her immense joy.

She was predeceased by her siblings: Muriel, Genevieve, Doreen, Laurel (Precious), Hyacinth, Leon, Sonny, Clement, Pete, and Lucien.

Leona will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the love she freely shared with family and friends. Though she is no longer with us in presence, her kindness, laughter, and loving spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, March 21, from 11 AM – 1 PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton.

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Scripture

"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.

I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare you a place,

I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."

— John 14:1–3

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In Loving Memory

Leona Emelda James

Forever in our hearts

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*Those we love don't go away.

They walk beside us every day—

unseen, unheard, but always near, still