James Douglas Winston was born April 9, 1946 in the city of St. Louis, MO where he was raised and educated. He was the first of four children born to the union of Gladys O. Hemphill-Winston and Nathaniel Milton Winston. Both parents preceded him in death. In the absence of his father, James took on the role of the man of the house, working to help support his mother and 3 sisters, Patti, San and Shirl. Being a very close-knit family, he was also like a brother to his cousins Billy, Rick, Nadine, Donnie and Dean. He never married nor had children of his own but he really loved, appreciated and enjoyed the children of his three sisters and his great nieces and nephews. James accepted Jesus Christ at a young age and joined church during one of his annual summer resides with his grandparents. However, he postponed baptism at that time because he was afraid to be immerged in the river as was the tradition of the little country Baptist Church that he attended. Finally, in 1989 after rededicating his life to Jesus Christ, he became a member of Gateway to Heaven Church and received his baptism. He was a faithful Board member and generous supporter until his death. His sister Shirley, a Jehovah's Witness, also frequently ministered to him. James was very industrious as far back as early childhood. He learned good work ethics from his mother and maternal grandfather, Lun Hemphill Sr. He was an employee of McDonnell Douglas/Boeing Aircraft for about 45 years until health challenges forced him to retire. He took great pride in his work and in being punctual. That aspect of his personality was prevalent in his bill paying also which resulted in him having excellent credit! One of his greatest aspirations in life was to someday become very rich and have a beautiful place for his entire family to cohabitate. James was a big man with a big heart and a big beautiful baritone voice that captivated both young and old. He put his whole heart into just about everything that he did. His unspoken motto was "GO BIG OR GO HOME!" He leaves to cherish his memories three sisters: Min. Gloria Young (Gary), Pastor Sandee Souter (Pastor Levert), and Shirley Williams (Dwayne). Three aunts: Lola Gurly, Dorothy Edwards (Sammy), Earline Hemphill. Eight nieces and nephews: Rev. Marilyn Stowers (James), Julius Johnson Jr., Min. Trina Souter, Gladys Smith (Melvin), Levert Souter Jr.(Lorietta), Gary Young II, Kendra Lynell, Crystal Johnson, and a host of great nieces, nephews, other loved ones and good friends. This Online Memorial has been created to commemorate the life of James Winston. You are invited to add a Tribute in his memory. Please click "Sign Guestbook" below to add your own memories, reflections, thoughts or condolences.