James Lee Perdue Sr.

James Lee Perdue was the son of Fannie Williams Perdue and Elder George E. Perdue Sr. He was born as the fourth child of nine on December 9, 1950. He departed this life on June 19, 2023, at the University Hospital surrounded by his loving and faithful family.

James confessed Christ at an early age at St. Jude Early Church of God in Christ under the leadership of the late Mother Curtis McDaniel. He later joined the New Jerusalem Baptist Church in 1992.

James graduated from Hughes High School in 1970. He was an active athlete playing football and basketball. He continued to be active in the Alumni class of 1970. James was selected as a member of the Northern Kentucky University basketball team in 1971. He was later honored at a 40-year celebration as a member of the 1971 – 72 Men’s Basketball Alumni. His picture is on display in the sports lobby of Truest Arena Northern Kentucky University.

After attending Northern Kentucky University, James joined the United States Marines, and was stationed in San Diego. He received an honorable discharge after suffering a knee injury.

James’ work history included numerous positions before he started a career with the City of Cincinnati, which included the Cincinnati Park Board and the Hamilton County Metropolitan Sewer District, where he retired after 28 years, early retirement in January 2008. James’ extensive knowledge of the municipal sewer lines continued to be leveraged even after his retirement.

James, affectionately called “Big Jim”, loved to cook. His specialties were deep fried turkeys and fried fish. He enjoyed cooking at family gatherings, picnics, and reunions and enjoyed the compliments from neighbors, co-workers, and family members regarding his culinary skills. James was also a great landscaper. His specialized skills were honed in his home’s corner edifice – neatly maintained until his health failed.

James loved playing basketball and helped to coach Little League Baseball.

James’ character was developed from the roots of his loving family. Whenever anyone was in his presence, his melonic, soothing voice gave expression and impression to men and women of all ages including children. His tall stature and handsome appearance was an inspiring touch, earning him the title of Gentle Giant. James’ persona was a gift from God.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Fannie and George Perdue Sr. and sister, Josephine Perdue Brown, “Josie”. James leaves to mourn; his loyal wife, Jynella; sons, James Jr. (Tiffanie) and Vondaze (Trisha); five grandchildren, Skylar, Saige, Solomon, Ruby, and Atlas; seven brothers and sisters, George Perdue Jr. (Amina), Cynthia Patton (Ned), Carolyn Burden (Eddie), Milo Perdue, Johnnie Perdue (Shirley), Timothy Perdue (Elaine), and Nathaniel Perdue; brothers-in-law, William Lynch (Judy), Donald Lynch, and Gary Lynch (Theresa); sisters-in-law, Marilyn Hawkins and Darlene Lynch; uncle, Marvin Williams (Lithonia, Georgia); and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and cousins.

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