Vera M

James

With deep love and profound sorrow, the family of Vera M. James announces her peaceful passing on December 3, 2025. Born on February 17, 1952, in Marianna, Florida, Vera was one of six siblings.

Raised in a loving home by her devoted parents, Louise Gilbert and Charles B. Gilbert, she carried out their teachings of kindness, humility, and strength throughout her life. Both of her parents preceded her in death, along with her brothers Walter Leon and Charles B. Gilbert Jr., and her beloved nephews Edward Sims and Darrell Gilbert.

Vera attended Jackson County Training School, where she developed the foundation of grace and perseverance that would define her journey. After graduating, she traveled to New York with her sister Lucille Gilbert, embracing new opportunities and beginning a chapter that would shape the rest of her life.

While living in Queens Village, New York, Vera met the love of her life, Charles E. James, in 1972.

Their bond grew into a partnership rooted in devotion and joy. On February 14, 1980, they united in marriage, beginning a beautiful union grounded in love, respect, and unwavering commitment.

Vera dedicated her life to being a homemaker— a calling she embraced with pride, purpose, and an open heart. She raised four children. Her home was her sanctuary, filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of her cherished Sunday dinners, which brought her family together every week.

She delighted in spending time with her children, creating joyful memories through card games, board games, and video games, moments that remain forever treasured. Her love was expressed in every meal she cooked, every lesson she taught, and every moment she devoted herself to the people she cherished most.

Vera leaves behind her devoted husband Charles; her loving children: Vanessa R. James, (Melvin Douthett), Victoria J. James, (Anthony Lennon), Jocelyn A. James, and Charles E. James II; her five beloved grandchildren-Stefan, Aaliyah, Lyric, Dyson, and Amir, and her surviving siblings Gertrude Sims, Willie Gilbert, and Lucille Gilbert, all from Florida. She is also remembered by nieces and nephews, relatives, and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

A woman of grace, compassion, and quiet strength, Vera's legacy is rooted in love— a love that shaped her family, uplifted her home, and continues to shine through all who knew her. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, her love beyond measure, and her presence deeply missed.