James Israel, beloved husband, father, brother and friend passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025 at his home in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Jim as we affectionately called him was 77 years old.

Jim was born on Jan. 14, 1948 in Washington, D.C. to Marion Mays. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Linda Garner; sons Christopher and David, two grandchildren Trinity and Jaiden, sister Parthenia (Leon) Valentine and a niece and nephew.

When it came to his work ethic, Jim was almost obsessive in crossing his "t’s" and dotting "i’s". He worked for the Federal Government for 42 years - From G.S.A. to the Department of Education - to finally EEOC as a financial analyst.

His various agencies provided expertise and pride in his field.

He enjoyed watching the flora and fauna in our wooded backyard from the window and sounds of birds from the deck. It provided him solace.

He was always searching for his roots and became an avid genealogist. He would spend hours on the computer daily cross-checking various lineages. He uncovered hundreds of pages of maternal information and through DNA paternal information back to the 1700’s. He was contacted by various companies who wanted him to help with their research.

I hope he has found peace and his quiet place.

“Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.”

You search is over.

Rest in peace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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