James Elam II

January 3, 1966 - January 11, 2021

His Life… James Elam II had a heart of gold. His trademark smile was infectious. He was full of love. On Monday, January 11, 2021, “Jimmy” submitted to God’s call and peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home. James was born to James and Sarah Elam on January 3, 1966 in Portsmouth, Virginia. James was educated in the Portsmouth public school systems. He graduated from Manor High School, where he was a standout football athlete and a member of the Mighty Marching Mustangs. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Norfolk State University. He furthered his studies at Duke University. James possessed a strong work ethic. He persisted in always striving to do his best. He started his management career with General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) the day after he graduated from Norfolk State University. His philosophy was that the sooner he got to work, the sooner he could retire. After thirty years of work, James retired as a Regional Manager with Verizon Business. James was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. “Groovy” was active in fraternity activities. He personified the principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift. James had a strong spiritual foundation, and he was obedient to God’s word. He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at the age of eleven. He was baptized at New Bethel Baptist Church and served on the Board of Trustees. Upon his return to the Tidewater area, he attended New Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk and Calvary Virginia Beach Church. James aspired to live a full meaningful life. He lived his life by the Golden Rule, believing in treating others the way he wanted to be treated. Life experiences taught him the value of respect. He never showed judgement or bias towards anyone. Along with the love of his family, James had a passion for good old toe tapping gospel music, traveling, and dancing. Highlights of his traveling include cruising and attending the BET Awards show on a few occasions. James’ kind-hearted loving spirit will be missed by his mother, Sarah Elam; sister Pamela (Delano); brother Jeffrey; and nephew Dazjon. His spirit will also be missed by aunts Roszell Elam and Mattie Green (William); uncles Ernest Brighthop, Albert Elam (Cassandra), Henry Elam (Sarah), Joseph Elam; and a host of other family and friends.