Mr. James Daniel McCormick, Jr.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith”.  II Timothy 4:7

James Daniel McCormick Jr., was born the elder child on January 21, 1954, to James, Sr. and Celeste McCormick.  He departed his earthly life, with God’s Peace, on Friday, January 13, 2023, at the SECU Hospice House, Smithfield, NC.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, William Ervin “Billy” McCormick.

James leaves to cherish his precious memories:  his loving and caring wife, Sheirl of 41 years; his devoted and supporting son, Vincent (Jessica) Alston of Olympia, WA; his precious and loving daughter, Jamie (Daunta) Tyler of Charlotte, NC; his four amazing and gifted grandsons, Spencer, Mahkai, Jayden, and Miko; sisters, Sandra Faye (John) Alford, Laurinburg, NC; Betty Joe McCormick, Fayetteville, NC, and Jean (Tony) Williams, Welcome, MD; brother, Robert McCormick, Duffie, NC; one aunt, Veorah Dukes, Red Springs; best friend, Donald Pair; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

James was educated in the Hoke County School System and graduated from Hoke County High School in 1972.  He enlisted in the United States Army in 1975 with tours at Fort Bragg and Alaska.  Upon receiving an Honorable Discharge, he returned to NC and joined the North Carolina Army National Guard.  He was employed full time as a Supply Technician at the USPFO-NC, Raleigh in 1981 as the first African American male to be hired to work in Logistics in the front office.

James served his country well, receiving many accolades and awards for his 20 years of service retiring in 1996 as Staff Sergeant.  He held many positions but the most memorable one would be his last assignment as the Battalion Supply Sergeant, 1/130th Avn Bn. Morrisville, NC.  After retiring from the National Guard, he worked for Central Prison with the Department of Corrections for many years making a difference in many officers and inmate’s lives. 

He worked for the NC State Department of Transportation as the Transportation Officer and the first African American male to be employed in that Division and through the Grace of God, he retired with 20 years. He worked part-time at Wal-Mart as a Door Greeter for 15 years.

Now, let us meet James the soldier, man of God, and ambassador for the Lord.  In his early years, James was a member of McCormick Chapel Missionary Baptist Church.  Throughout his life, he was faithful in numerous ministries serving as Deacon, Missionary, Trustee, Sunday School Teacher, Usher Board President, and many other outreach ministries.  James served with excellence in all that he did for the Lord.

James was a servant with a servant’s heart.  He mentored many young boys and men in how to be a man, husband, father, and how to treat a woman.  He was a strong tower, stood tall, and said what he meant and meant what he said. 

He was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather and served, loved, and cared for his Queen Sheirl; always supporting her ministry to the utmost.  He was also an awesome, loving, and caring brother and brother-in-love.  He loved and provided well for his family.  He enjoyed being retired and loved traveling with his wife while enjoying God’s precious gift of “Life”.  He will be truly missed by his family, friends, and everyone who loved him dearly.

A celebration of life home-going service will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2023 - 11:00 a.m., at Brighter Hope Christian Fellowship, 385 Slate Top Road, Clayton, NC.  Bishop Blanzie Williams, Jr., Officiating/Presiding.  Evangelist Sheirl A. McCormick will be the Eulogist. A public walk-through visitation will be held on Friday, January 20, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Brighter Hope.  Mask will be required to enter the services.

The service can also be viewed via Facebook live stream at    https://www.Facebook.com/BrighterHopeCF/video beginning at 11:00 on the Saturday, January 21st.  You are welcome to send flowers or you can make a donation to the Saint Jude Children’s Hospital in James’ honor.

Message from the wife, Queen Sheirl: 

"Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ! The outpouring of love, prayers, support, and condolences has truly been a blessing to me and my family during these trying time. It has given me strength in my weakness".

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