James Marlon Gaither, Jr. (Man-Man) was born on September 7, 1979 to Joyce Hughley and James Gaither, Sr. in Cincinnati, Ohio. He departed this life on Wednesday, December 28, 2011. Although James only walked this earth for 32 short years, his life was very full. This is evident in the words of a friend who captured his very essence:
James was an all-around amazing person. He would do anything for anyone. James always looked for the good in people and would lend a helping hand at every chance. He worked hard for what he had and earned it on his own. James would let it be known that he thought the world of his family. When I close my eyes, I can picture his winning smile that would light up a room every time?
James developed a love and passion for music at a young age. He was able to write and record his own music, but he didn?t stop there. As James matured and his talents blossomed, he began to encourage young people who shared his passion for music. He freely gave of his talents and time to help others write and record their own works as well. James did all of this out of his love for people and music and never expected anything in return for his efforts. James truly was a giver and he gave of himself to anyone and everyone who was in need. In 2010, James made one of his dreams a reality by opening his own recording studio/convenience store. He truly was a compassionate and loving young man and this accomplishment was just another avenue for him to reach out and help others follow their dreams.
James was a loving and devoted father. The birth of his only child, James Gaither, III (Tre) was the hap-piest day of his life. The bond between the two of them will transcend time. Family and music were the heart and soul of James? life. He never tired of sharing himself with all he met.James touched the lives of many people with his smile and generosity. He was an awesome young man and his life demonstrated the greatest commandment of all ? to show love to our fellow man. He will be deeply missed by all. He was a devoted father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend.
James leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved son, James Gaither, III (Tre); his loving mother and step-father, Joyce and Terrence Hughley; his father, James Gaither, Sr.; his devoted sisters, Lashonda Routt (David), Jazmin Gaither, Kenyatta Houston, Lakitia Hughley, Breshonda Hughley and Tecoya Brown; brothers, Jermel Gaither and Denorris Houston; grandmother, Willene Anderson of Camp Hill, Alabama; a special and loving friend, Sharae Gooding; and a host of other relatives and friends.