Elder Bruce Lorenzo James was born on December 24, 1960, in Haines City, Florida, to the late Christopher "Christmas" Cox, Sr. and Ida Mae Burden James.

On June 11, 2026, Elder James completed his earthly journey and was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus Christ.  Funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at New Life Worship Center, Morgan Road.  Interment will follow at Bellevue Memorial Garden.

Elder James' early years in Haines City, Florida, were filled with the love of family, treasured friendships, and the blessings of a supportive community. He received his education at Haines City High School in Haines City, Florida. He later continued his studies, earning an Associate Degree in Business from Park College, a Bachelor's Degree in Business from the University of Maryland, and a Master of Business Administration from Brenau University.

A proud patriot and dedicated servant, Elder James enlisted in the United States Army in 1978. He faithfully served his country for over twenty-four years, retiring with the rank of First Sergeant in 2003. His military career was marked by leadership, integrity, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to those under his care. Following his military retirement, Elder James continued serving in a civilian capacity through the Ordnance Electronics Maintenance Training Department, where he remained committed to mentoring and developing others as an US Army Training Specialist.

On December 20, 1980, Elder James married the love of his life, Evangelist Vera James, at St. Mary Primitive Baptist Church in Haines City, Florida. Together they shared over forty-five years of love, faith, faith, and family. They enjoyed breakfast dates at Cracker Barrel, tending to their garden, thrifting, taking scenic drives, sightseeing, and spending countless hours together. Whether exploring new places or simply enjoying quiet conversations along the way, they treasured the time they shared and the memories they created. Together, they were blessed with three daughters: Crystal James, Stacy Roberts, and Brittney Reid, who brought them great joy and pride throughout their lives.

Elder James was blessed to be surrounded by a loving family and faithful friends throughout his life. Whether in Florida, Georgia, or around the world, he valued relationships, nurtured meaningful connections, and found great joy in spending time with those he loved. While he loved and served many throughout his life, his grandchildren, Jaxon and Josiah, held a special place in his heart and brought him immeasurable joy. Elder James also loved supporting his Florida and Georgia teams and could often be found cheering them on with family and friends. He was a man of deep faith, a servant's heart, and a generous spirit. He never met a stranger and was known for his willingness to help anyone in need. His kindness, wisdom, and genuine love for people left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Elder James loved God, his family, and his church family. Serving God's house was among his most treasured commitments. After joining New Life Worship Center in 1989, he faithfully served for decades in numerous capacities, including Elder, Chief Financial Officer, member of the Board of Trustees, and member of the Budget and Finance Committee. One of the callings closest to his heart was serving his leaders, Overseers Claude and Regina Harris, and later Pastor Claude Harris Jr. Elder James was a devoted supporter of the vision God placed in their hearts and took great pride in helping lead and coordinate their annual appreciation celebrations. He loved his church, leaders, and New Life family. He gave generously of his time, talents, wisdom, and resources, always seeking ways to strengthen the ministry and advance the Kingdom of God.

A faithful servant until the very end, Elder James leaves a legacy of unwavering faith, humility, generosity, servant leadership, and love. His influence will continue to bear fruit through his family, church family, and the countless lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ida Mae James, his father, Christopher Cox, Sr., and his siblings, Helen Cox, Lois Walker, Gwen Goddard, Christopher Cox, Jr., and Harold James.

Elder James leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Evangelist Vera James; his daughters, Minister Crystal James, Dr. Stacy Roberts (Daniel), and Mrs. Brittney Reid (Michael); his beloved grandchildren, Jaxon Roberts and Josiah Reid; his siblings, Mildred Williams, Loretta Cox, Dorothy James, Ophelia Armstrong, William James, Sr. (Lorry), Kelvin Veal, and Gary Veal (Shirley); his sister-in-law, Polly Cox; his New Life Worship Center family; and a host of extended family members, friends, fellow soldiers, and loved ones whose lives were forever enriched by his presence.

Though he will be deeply missed, we rejoice in knowing that his legacy of faith, service, generosity, and love will continue through all who knew him. "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23)

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the New Life Worship Center Better Together Initiative, a ministry effort that was very close to Elder Bruce James' heart and one he faithfully supported. Vieiwing will be held Friday, June 19, 2026, from 1-5 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the link below.

https://nlwconline.com/give

Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, GA