Birdie Arvease James' Obituary
Birdie Arvease James
Sunrise: October 10, 1922
Sunset: February 14, 2013
Birdie Arvease James passed away on Thursday, February 14, 2013 at home in Oakland, California at the age of 90. She was the second child born to Julia and Terrance H. Davis in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Birdie received her early education in Little Rock graduating from Dunbar High School in 1940 and Dunbar Junior College in 1943. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Highland Park and sang with the junior choir.
In 1944 seeking better employment opportunities, Birdie moved to Oakland, California and lived with her father's sister. She married A.B. James, IV in 1946 who preceded her in death after 56 years of marriage. To this union one daughter was born. Birdie was employed for the federal government working at the Veteran's Administration and Oak Knoll Naval Hospital; she retired after 30 years of service. Birdie was a faithful member of the Church of the Good Shepherd at Oakland, California for over 45 years until her failing health kept her from participating. She loved music, poetry and playing piano for her own enjoyment. On occasion she played for her missionary circle. Her favorite hymns were 'His Eye is on The Sparrow' and 'My Father Watches Over Me.'
Birdie leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Jacqueline Williams and grandson, Kevin Williams and his wife Cheryl of Oakland, California, sister, Jewell Ellis of Oakland, California and Janet Black of Stockton, California, nieces, nephews and many other relatives.
Graveside services will be held on Friday, February 22, 2013 at 1:30pm at Chapel of the Chimes, Oakland.
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