James A. Beckwith

James A. Beckwith was born January 23, 1921. He was the son of James Gruggs Beckwith and Mary Belle Grundy Beckwith in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was first of ten children born to that union. His parents and 9 siblings preceded him in death.

He is a graduate of Crispus Attucks High School. He was a member of St Paul AME Church.

He served in United States Army during World War II from 1943 to 1945. He battled in Central Burma, India and received two Bronze Stars. He worked as a Communications Specialist.

He was member of UAW Local 23 at General Motors. He has been retired for over 30 years.

He was an avid music lover with his favorites consisting of Gospel and Rhythm & Blues. He enjoyed playing checkers. He loved to travel, watch old western movies and the weather channel.

James was preceded in death by his parents and previous wife Lizzie Teat Beckwith; brothers; Richard Swanigan, Elijah Storey, Clinton Beckwith, Eugene Beckwith, Kenneth Beckwith,
Robert Beckwith and Richard Beckwith; Sisters; Gladys Goodman, Mary Beadles, and Doris Hubbard.

Those left to cherish his memory are wife Norma Brown Beckwith, One Daughter, Sharon Ferguson (Leonard Sr); Step Daughters; Effie Hester (Curtis) and Glenda Black (Carl Sr). Stepson; John Stevens. Sisters; Delois Cheney, Helen Gaither and Elnor Franklin. Host of grandchildren and Great Grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives.