James Merril Golson, Sr.

James Merrill Golson, Sr., 75 , returned to his heavenly home on June 5, 2020, after a valiant battle with a traumatic accident.  His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.  James was born to the late Perry and Nettie Golson, in Billingsley, Alabama, on November 11, 1944.  He was immersed in the Christian community that would be his lifelong support from an early age, where he attended Carter Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Billingsley, Alabama.  He graduated from the Chilton County High School in 1963.  After he graduated from high school, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio, from there, he joined the United States Army.  After serving his term in the army, he moved to Chicago, Illinois.  James worked for O'Hare Airport  and Himond 's Bakery.  Due to health issues he was no longer able to work.  James liked to cook and share his skills with his church members and friends.  James would later return to Prattville, Alabama, where he  would serve as a members of New Mount Zion and Locust United Methodist Church.  James was very involved in the operation of the church; he held the position as Finance Secretary, Sunday School Teacher, and Chairperson of the Trustees.  James was also the Treasurer of the Locust Bluff Cemetery Board.  James was blessed with a large and loving family.  He married his best friend, Josephine Johnson, in October 1973, James helped raise his only son, James Jr. with love, patience, discipline  and humility.  From the very beginning, he dedicated his son and grandson to God and encouraged them to explore the beauty of the gospels.  James was an educator at heart.  He was kind and soft-spoken, and always had time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how small.  He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his creator..  James is survived by his wife Josephine; his son James Merrill Golson, Jr. (Quida Singleton); his grandchildren; Andrew Golson and Ryan Singleton-Golson, Jr.; and his brothers; Joe Golson and Randy Golson.  James had a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.  James is preceded in death by his brothers: Willie Golson, Perry Golson, Jr., Murphy Golson, Sr., and Reginald Golson; and his parents.

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