Patricia Ann James' Obituary
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Patricia Ann Nicholson James. Patricia peacefully departed this life on May 26th, 2026, at the age of 89. She will always be remembered as a devoted mother and wife, a loyal friend and neighbor, a faithful Christian and a true pillar of strength to all that knew her. As the true matriarch of our family, her children and family were her life’s purpose and greatest joy. Her immense love, fierce protection, and steadfast loyalty stand as a beautiful testament to her devotion that will forever define her legacy.
Pat was born on February 16th, 1937, in the mountain town of Hiawassee, Georgia and was the cherished daughter of Maxine Ledford Nicholson and Clifford Walker Nicholson. A few years later, Maxine and Clifford welcomed a son into the world, and Pat was joined by her brother Jerry David Nicholson. As a small child, her family relocated to Austell, Georgia and it was here that she put down her roots, remaining a part of the Austell community for the next 80 years. Here, she found her happiest moments and her place to call home where she touched countless lives with her kindness and determination.
On June 27th, 1952, Pat married the true love of her life and soulmate, Barney Paul James Sr. Together they shared a beautiful, inspiring marriage that spanned 73 years. Together, they built a life devoted to raising four children and creating a wonderful family and home. After we lost Barney on June 24th, 2025, Pat was never quite the same, as it seemed half of her life and heart went with him. While Pat will be deeply missed, her family takes immense comfort in knowing that she is finally able to join her beloved husband in eternal peace.
First and foremost, Pat was a mother whose dedication to her family was her top priority. She was fiercely protective and endlessly supportive of her children. She created a home filled with unconditional love and laughter. Her proud legacy lives on through her four children: her oldest son, Barney Paul James Jr. (“Skip”) and his wife, Donna; her second son, Jerry Alan James, whose beloved wife, Joy, preceded her in death; her third son, Major General (Retired) Bradley Steven James and his wife, Tammy; and her youngest child and only daughter, Jennifer Ann James Shackelford and her husband, Dave.
Affectionally called “Granny J” by her twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, she leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering commitment for family. Her grandchildren will forever treasure memories of making her famous banana pudding, learning to ride bikes in her driveway, going on their first plane rides, studying Georgia history over homemade salmon patties, and watching Gone with the Wind together. Granny J was a cherished role model who filled her grandchildren’s lives with adventure, taking them on camping trips, pool days, art classes at the Mable House, to the beauty salon in her Pontiac, as well as equestrian events that inspired one grandchild to become a veterinarian. Christmas at the James’s home was an especially magical time each year, marked by playing in Paw Paw’s backyard log cabin and receiving her signature “Pat-Practical” stockings filled with deodorant, lint rollers, and Avon ChapStick. Whether attending sporting events, concerts, or weddings, sweet Granny J never missed a milestone.
A woman of incredible work ethic and boundless energy, Pat balanced the demands of home and career with remarkable grace. Early in her marriage, while Barney was serving in the U.S. Army, she worked for several years at Sears-Roebuck in Atlanta, Georgia. Later, while raising her growing family, she began a 30-year career with Avon Products in the Transportation Office. When more family income was needed, she started working an additional job part-time at Cloud Nine, a local wedding dress shop, where she blossomed into a talented wedding planner, expertly organizing and directing weddings for family, friends and countless members of her community.
Known for her exceptional leadership, sharp organization, and brilliant planning skills, Pat was a pillar of devotion who volunteered tirelessly for nearly a decade with the South Cobb High School Marching Band Booster Club. Her deep commitment and high-energy helpfulness made her an invaluable part of the South Cobb band community, and some of the students fondly remember her as their “favorite band mom.” She was often described as “superwoman” for her unmatched ability to get things done. Pat could always be counted on to have her clipboard and itinerary ready. She was affectionately known as the “McDonalds lady,” since every band trip included at least one stop with six buses pulling into the golden arches.
A Godly woman of deep faith and tireless dedication, she devoted her time and energy to serving and caring for others. For 75 years, she was a faithful member of Austell First Baptist Church, where she held the beautiful distinction of being the longest-attending member. Pat lovingly served as Coordinator of the Food Services Ministry from 1999 to 2018. Later, she and Barney joined Concord Baptist Church in Mableton, Georgia where she continued her faithful attendance from 2018 to 2026.
Now the family home of 61 years stands quiet and empty following the loss of both mom and dad. The world has grown dimmer since mom left, but her extraordinary memory remains vibrantly alive through the children and grandchildren she so fiercely loved. Her legacy will continue to guide, inspire, and comfort us across every generation to come.
So, Mom, it’s time to go be with Dad—he has been waiting. We will be okay here; you taught us well. Get your clipboard ready; I am sure the angels are going to need you to help organize their next meeting. One day, we will all be together again. We love you and will miss you, Mom.
Please join us honoring the beautiful life of our mother, Patricia James. The visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30th, 2026, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Davis-Struempf Funeral Home, 1975 East-West Connector, Austell, Georgia 30106. A funeral service, conducted by Rev. Richard Wilkins of Concord Baptist Church, will be held in the chapel on Sunday, May 31st, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Harmony Memorial Gardens in Mableton, Georgia.
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