James Shields' Obituary
James Mack Shields was born March 9, 1923, in Como, Mississippi,
the youngest of Mack and LeeAnn Shields' seven children.
The Shields family moved to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where
James attended vocational school and received a diploma.
James relocated to Cleveland in 1938 and immediately was
blessed with several job opportunities before settling in as a truck
driver at Republic Steel. He was employed until his retirement.
James took an active part in the ministry of Second Tabernacle
Missionary Baptist Church, where he was a member for more than
60 years.
James married Ima Jean Mosley November 18, 1944, and when
their only child, Gwendolyn Jean, was born it was on March 9,
sharing his birthday. Ima preceded James in death.
Proud of his family whom he loved very much, James returned to
Missouri after retiring, to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren.
He joined the Olivet Missionary Baptist Church in
Florissant, Missouri.
James loved to sing. He enjoyed watching professional basketball
and baseball. In fact, he remained a devoted Cleveland Indians fan
even after leaving the city. He loved to bowl, and his team won
several trophies and tournaments, traveling to various cities around
the country.
Active and independent, James lived on his own. When he passed
away Wednesday, September 7, 2016, Gwen and Al were at his
side.
James' legacy of love includes: his daughter ~ Gwen (Al) of St. Louis,
MO; grandchildren ~ Richael (Rick) of St. Louis, MO and Rosalind
(Joshua) of Memphis, TN and Terron of Florissant, MO; five great
grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law;
two sisters-in-law; a number of nieces, nephews and many friends.
Also, very special to him were: Verdale Claxton (Sheri) and grandchildren
of Atlanta, GA, as well as Donetta Claxton and son of
Cleveland, OH.
What’s your fondest memory of James ?
What’s a lesson you learned from James ?
Share a story where James 's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?
