James Edward Nixon – “Shag”, 74, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

James was born on December 18, 1950, in Prattville, Alabama, to the late Julius and Lula Jean Nixon. He grew up with a deep curiosity about the world, a love of music, and an enduring sense of humour that brightened the lives of everyone who knew him.

Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, competitive spirit, and commitment to excellence. He enjoyed a successful 15-year career as a top salesman at Safeway Tire, where he earned numerous “Salesman of the Year” awards. He also worked at Mazel Company as a dedicated tow motor operator. His passion for sports was apparent early in life—he was an All-American basketball player at Cuyahoga Community College from 1970 to 1973 and continued his athletic career at Southern Illinois University from 1974 to 1975. In 1976, he played semi-professional basketball in Canada with “Canada’s Harlem Diplomats”. His love for sports extended beyond basketball; as he was also an avid softball player and was an instrumental player in several softball teams in Ohio. James was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame in both Cleveland Heights and Euclid, OH, which was a testament to his talent and impact on the community.

On 23 August 2018, James married the love of his life, Betty Jean Nixon, and together they built a home filled with smiles, sports, and love. They raised two sons, Aaron James Austin Nixon and James Alexander Nixon, who will forever cherish his undeniable strength, charisma, and endless encouragement.

He was a devoted member of Start Right Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C), which he joined in 2010. Deeply committed to his faith and community, he actively served on the Men’s Ministry Team, participating the Barbershop Talk, a Men’s Prayer Line. He faithfully attended Sunday School and weekly Bible Study with his wife, and generously volunteered his time assisting with food pantry deliveries. His passion for scripture and storytelling also led him to participate as multiple characters in the church’s Bible Walkthrough, bringing the Word to life for others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Nixon; his children – Aaron Nixon and James and Courtney (wife) Nixon; his five grandchildren – Chace, Lennox, Carter, Legend, and Leighton Nixon; his siblings – Juliette Nixon, Sonya Nixon, and Julius Nixon Jr.; his three brother-in-loves, three sister-in-loves, nieces, and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents – Julius and Lula Jean Nixon and his siblings – John Wesley Nixon, Richard Nixon, and Arcenia Jackson.

A celebration of James’ life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Start Right C.O.G.I.C, 977 Caledonia Ave. Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

“Let not your heart be troubled; you 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 a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”  John 14:1-3