James Floyd Harper was born on January 15, 1950 in Nettleton, Mississippi to the union of Leroy and Ruth Harper. He was the youngest of three boys. He will be reunited with his father Leroy, and his brother Eddie who both preceded him in death. James attended Canaan Galilee Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Sanford and Pastor Rice. His parents also attended Canaan and served faithfully.

James attended elementary school in Nettleton, Mississippi. The family relocated to Illinois where James graduated from Venice Lincoln Tech. James was inducted into the Navy after his graduation, after his service of 2 years. He returned to Illinois where he met Shirley Matkins. They were married and to this union two children were born. Many years later he married Evelyn Love.

James worked for the Charles F. Prevedel Federal Building for many years and retired. James was a loving father and grandfather. Family was everything to him. He loved coaching the girls softball team in Eagle Park. He loved watching old western movies. James loved taking long walks with his grandbabies. He was a hard worker, dedicated to his job. James never met a stranger. He was a very friendly person.

On Sunday, March 28, 2021 our Heavenly Father called James Floyd Harper home to be at eternal rest. He leaves to mourn and cherish his memories, his loving mother, Ruth Harper; his two daughters, Latesha Harper and LaShawna (Shon Bon) Harper, both of Granite City, IL; brother Lloyd (Lorraine) Harper of Fairview Heights, IL; four grandchildren DaVaughntez and Kenyada Jennings of Granite City, IL, Jaylin and Aniya Harper of Granite City, IL; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends.