James Lee Grubbs Sr.

James Lee Grubbs, Sr., was born February 2, 1950, to Claudine Fern Grubbs and Elton Ackles (both preceded him in death). James was the eldest of four siblings: Michael, Marsha, and Sharon (preceded him in death). James grew up on the southside of Chicago and was raised in the Robert Taylor Housing Complex. James attend Terrell Elementary School. James graduated DuSable High School in 1969 and later received an associate’s degree in liberal arts from Olive Harvey College. James worked as a forklift operator at Westinghouse Electric Corporation. During his tenure James had five children: Cynara, Samara, Ceylon, James Jr. (preceded him in death), and Anthun. In September 1980 James fulfilled his lifelong dream and became a Chicago Police Officer, and he served the citizens of Chicago for 30 years. James received numerous service awards which included: Merit Awards, Department Commendations, and over 100 Honorable Mentions. James met the love of his life, Sharon, where they were married and shared 28 beautiful years marital bliss. After 30 years of service in Chicago, James decided to leave Chicago and move to Florence, South Carolina. James was an avid fisherman and loved to BBQ. When James saw a body of water, he would want to immediately go fishing. James wasn’t afraid to try or eat anything. James loved hunting and did not allow his handicap to limit his ability to hunt deer. James loved to travel and take cruises every opportunity he had. James and Sharon were always on a plane traveling somewhere. James truly loved his “little brother,” Michael, and loved spending time with him. James and Michael would always go fishing together and talk on the phone for hours. James’ health slowed him down, BUT he never stopped fishing or hunting. James and Sharon were traveling to Chicago when he became gravely ill and was rushed to Jeffersonville, Indiana Hospital. James never recovered and never made it to Chicago. After a month-long fight God decided to call his angel to glory. On March 1, 2022, the fight ended and James went to walk with the angels with his loving wife Sharon at his side. James Lee Grubbs, Sr., leaves to cherish his memory: devoted wife, Sharon; brother, Michael J. Grubbs; sister, Marsha Grubbs; four children, Cynara Grubbs, Samara Grubbs-Miller (Marvin), Ceylon Barnes, and Anthun (Joy) Barnes; thirteen grandchildren; eight greatgrandchildren; two goddaughters, Sheila Watts and Brianna Nolan; one godson, Charles Nolan; along with aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends and neighbors in Chicago, Illinois and Florence, South Carolina

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