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James Arthur Richards Sr.

September 26, 1927 - August 28, 2023

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Visitation
Affinity Missionary Baptist Church
4411 E 175th St
Cleveland, Ohio 44128
216-283-4365 |
Saturday 9/9, 10:00 am - 10:30 am
Calhoun Funeral Home Rockside Road
23000 Rockside Rd.
Bedford Heights, OH 44146
440-232-9758 |
Friday 9/8, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

service

Service
Affinity Missionary Baptist Church
4411 E 175th St
Cleveland, Ohio 44128
216-283-4365 |
Saturday 9/9, 10:30 am

James A. Richards was born to Ada and Maxie Richards at Macdonald House Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, September 26, 1927. He attended Central High School where he mastered the saxophone. He loved jazz and mimicked the masters (Coltrane, Charlie Parker, & Cannonball Adderley).

James was inducted into the United States Army in April, 1946. While there, he was a proud member of the second platoon military band where he played clarinet. He was honorably discharged and received the World War II Victory Medal.

”Kemo”, as James was affectionately called by friends, was united to June Barbara Sales in 1948. To this union of 53 years, three children, June, James Jr., and Linda Marcise, were born. James and Barbara were baptized at Shiloh Baptist Church in January, 1950. He later obtained a real-estate license from Griswold Institute and dabbled in real estate. He worked for the U.S. Post Office as a Mail Carrier from June, 1948 to 1984, retiring at the age of 57. Shortly after retirement, James worked as a TSA Representative with Cleveland Hopkins Airport. After ten years of employment, he retired in 1999 and began to play golf and line dance. He became an avid golf player, 9 holes up to 3 weeks before his passing. He also loved to travel, dress to impress, and was an original member of the Arrows Men’s Club.

After the death of his wife in 2001, he became a member of Affinity Missionary Baptist Church. He was an active participant in helping to feed the homeless. James, aka “Kemo”, will be remembered for his comedic jokes, vibrant personality, sense of style, and his determination to stay active.

He leaves to celebrate his life, his children; sister, Geraldine Welch; a daughter-in-law, Janet; five grandsons, Darien (Sheree), Malik, James Arthur III (Tamika), Jamaal and Andre; two great- grandchildren, Aloria Barbara and Hendrix Edmond; and a host of other family, relatives and friends who loved him.

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Visitation
Affinity Missionary Baptist Church
4411 E 175th St
Cleveland, Ohio 44128
216-283-4365 | Map
Saturday 9/9, 10:00 am - 10:30 am
Calhoun Funeral Home Rockside Road
23000 Rockside Rd.
Bedford Heights, OH 44146
440-232-9758 | Map
Friday 9/8, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Service
Affinity Missionary Baptist Church
4411 E 175th St
Cleveland, Ohio 44128
216-283-4365 | Map
Saturday 9/9, 10:30 am
Charity
Make a Memorial Donation
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James A. Richards was born to Ada and Maxie Richards at Macdonald House Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, September 26, 1927. He attended Central High School where he mastered the saxophone. He loved jazz and mimicked the masters (Coltrane, Charlie Parker, & Cannonball Adderley). James was inducted into the United States Army in April, 1946. WhileContinue Reading

See Condolences
Erroll G. Gay Jr left a message on October 13, 2023:
Dear family & friends, Mr. Richards was a beloved neighbor of mine. I’ve had the pleasure of living around him for about 16 years as a child. While I lived at my parents house, which was only 2 doors away from us. Many times see him practicing and playing golf in his backyard. And I would always try to speak to him when I seen him. I would still sometimes see him (off and on) as a young adult while visiting my parents on the weekends. And he even told me that he put in a good word for me while I still in the service during my investigation process. I have so many good memories of him & he will surely be missed! Wishing his family & loved ones (strength, peace & love). I really enjoyed learning about the other things in his life that I didn’t know. He really seemed like he stayed active and glad that he lived life and helped serve others as well! Until we see each other again my friend, God bless
Renee A Lindsley left a message on September 9, 2023:
Sorry for your loss. May he rest in God's loving arms.
Aylwin Bridged left a message on September 8, 2023:
Always God's prayers of comfort and peace to the entire Richards family.
Rhonda Borden left a message on September 8, 2023:
I am so sorry to hear about the Passing of Mr. Richards, He was a very nice person, I remember being with Him his Wife, Janet and James on many Dog Racing trips. He was the life of the party. He will be Missed. I Pray that the Holy Spirit give your Family Comfort. RIH ??
Cheryl Murray left a message on September 8, 2023:
I am sorry for the loss of such a dear man and in wonder of a life well lived!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Gayle Ector left a message on September 8, 2023:
To June, James and Linda, I’m sadden by your loss but rejoice in the lives he gave you. Your father’s life was well lived and full. What wonderful memories you have to cherish. As a member of the African American Genealogy Society, June has captured many wonderful facts and stories to pass on to future generations. What a legacy.
Clintia Shivers left a message on September 5, 2023:
Hi Richards family, I sincerely send my sincerest deepest condolences to the entire family. You have my deepest sympathy. Wishing you all peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time...
James D Prince left a message on September 5, 2023:
extended shared grief and loving condolences to family and friends ofmy brother for eighty four years. j.d.
condolence-image Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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