James Israel Gaither

James was born in Mecklenburg County, NC, on January 24, 1936, the seventh child of George and
Elizabeth (Lizzie) Gaither, who preceded him in death, along with five of his loving siblings, Mrs.
Georgetta Lucas, Mrs. Bobbie Lee Corbett, Mr. Isaiah Gaither, Mrs. Johnnie Maddox, and Mr. Zachariah
Gaither. James departed this life peacefully on Friday, August 18, 2023, at his home.

James attended Torrence-Lytle High School in Huntersville, NC, graduating in 1954. He and his wife
Frances continued to support the Class of '54 Alumni Association, attending their annual banquet this
past Saturday.

James retired as Foreman from Virginia Paper Company after many years of dedicated service and
continued to be a licensed insurance agent until his death. In his latter years, he became a school
crossing guard for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and became affectionately known as "Stop Sign
James".

He was a faithful member of Rockwell A.M.E. Zion Church until health issues made it difficult to drive.
He served in many capacities over the years including Church Clerk, Chairman of the Trustee Board,
Class Leader, and a proud member of the Golden Gates Gospel Chorus.

James leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 62 years, Frances Gaither of the home; one
daughter, Mrs. Cynthia Miller (Ronald) of Indian Trail, NC; one son, Mr. J. Cedric Gaither of Lake Norman, NC; one brother, Mr. Garfield Gaither of Charlotte, NC; three sisters, Mrs. Ruth Henry of Atlanta, GA, Ms. Thomasena Gaither of Charlotte, NC, Ms. Joanne Gaither of Charlotte, NC; five grandchildren, LaTasha Miller, Brandon Miller, Justin Miller, Cameron Miller, and Aliyah Miller all of Charlotte, NC, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and loving friends.

TO OUR DADDY
A limb has fallen from the family tree
I hear a voice that whispers, "Grieve not for me"
remember the best times, the laughter, the songs
the good I lived while I was strong
continue my heritage, I’m counting on you
keep on smiling, the sun will shine through.
my mind is at ease, my soul is at rest
remembering all....how I was truly blessed

continue traditions, no matter how small
go on with your lives, don't stare at the wall
I miss you all dearly so keep up your chin
until that fine day we're together again.