Phyllis Jean James

Phyllis Jean James (Thomas), beloved wife, mom, grandma, great grandma and aunt, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at CAMC Memorial Hospice, surrounded by her family.  She was 88 years old.

Jean was born on March 11, 1936, in Charleston, WV, youngest daughter to Virgie H. Blancet Thomas and Frank M. Thomas.  She was the last living sibling.  Preceded in death by her parents, brothers:  Joe, Mason, Clarence, Rufus and sisters: Nellie, Madeline, Irene, Doris, Rose, her niece Frances Thomas and nephews Jesse McCoy and Danny Thaxton and husband of 42 years Eric E. James.  She is survived by her children:  Kelly Hughes (Danny) of St. Albans, Timothy James (Michelle) of Walton, Lisa Francis (Robert) Charleston; grandchildren Chelsea Wendell (Seth), Nicholas Hughes, Wes, Brittney and HaleyGray; great grandchildren Talon Bradshaw and Remi Wendell and several nieces and nephews.

She graduated from Stonewall High School, Class of 1956.    Retired from WV Legislative Services and a faithful member of Cathedral of Prayer Baptist Church.  She loved going to church and her church family.

She loved her grandchildren unconditionally and her grand dogs, they brought her great joy.  She enjoyed watching her game shows daily, eating any type of candy or sweets, going to yard sales, thrift stores and was always on the search for the next pocketbook or pair of shoes.  Spent countless hours soaking up the sun while drinking hot coffee.  Enjoyed vacationing at the beach with her nieces Sue and Frances.  She was always the life of the party and always enjoyed having fun and traveling. Everyone she met was automatically a friend, she never met a stranger.

Her services will be held at Cathedral of Prayer Baptist Church, 2326 Pennsylvania Avenue, Charleston, WV, on Friday, March 15, 2024.  Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 12:00 p.m.Funeral will begin at 12:00 p.m. Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting the James family.