Melvin M. James

Melvin M. James went home to be with Jesus on June 29, 2017. He was reunited with his son, his grandson, his siblings, his parents, and other friends and family who left this world before him. What a beautiful family reunion that was! Melvin was born on March 28, 1928 in Trumann, Arkansas to Thomas and Lillie James. As a young man, Melvin moved to the Kansas City area, where he spent the majority of his life. After serving in the Navy, Melvin began his career as a barber on Kansas Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas. He celebrated sixty-five years as a barber. During this time, he became known for his testimony and witness for Christ. If you sat in his chair, you knew what he believed. While owning his barber shop, Melvin also served as an evangelist and pastor for several years; and he made his mark as a business man as he began his hearing aid and real estate businesses. He was excited to be successful in the real estate business and managed several properties that he owned. No matter what his career, preaching the Gospel was something he never stopped doing. Melvin is survived by two sons, Harold David James and Randy James. His third son, Dennis James, greeted him in Heaven on June 29. Melvin is survived by eight grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Melvin is also survived by his dear friend and business partner, Carol Merritt, and many friends at the Elm Grove Baptist Church where he was happy to serve as an usher. Melvin will be remembered as a southern gentleman with his sweet southern accent and silly phrases. He will be remembered as a great businessman and an incredible barber. Most of all, he will be remembered as a soul winner. He loved to share the testimony of how, at 24 years old, he was brought to his knees and Jesus changed his life. Even the doctors and nurses in the hospital remarked that, if you had met him, you had been asked by him if you knew Jesus. What a beautiful legacy of the love of Christ. Whether he was handing you a track or sharing with you his testimony, there was no doubt that it was his goal to be sure you knew about Jesus. This is what we will remember most. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to Elm Grove Baptist Church.

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Melvin M. James

March 28, 1928 - June 29, 2017