James Edward Tidwell was born on August 13, 1950 in Newport, Arkansas to James Alvin Tidwell and Louise Bember-Tidwell. The family moved to East St. Louis, IL when James was a small child. He united with Lively Stone Church.

James is preceded in death by his parents, James Alvin Tidwell and Louise Bember-Tidwell; brother Roy Tidwell.

James attended school in St. Louis, Missouri. He later joined the Army and worked for Lighthouse of the Blind then retired.

James married/divorced Rena Smith in 2009.

James departed this life on December 18, 2021 . He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter Jamisa Tidwell; three grandchildren Andre Tidwell, Danesha Sanders, and Donyae Sanders; seven grandchildren; special friend, Carmen, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.