James M. Jefferson, 78 of Birmingham entered eternal rest (Sunday) September 4th from Grandview Hospital. He was born on Sunday, October 17, 1943 in Montgomery County to the late Jimmie Lamb and Mary Edwards.

Affectionately known by many as "PD", James graduated from George Washington Carver High School and attended Alabama State University.

James accepted Christ at an early age and was a faithful member of New Pleasant Valley AME Zion Church. He later moved to Birmingham, Alabama where he became a member of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church in Alabaster until God summoned him home.

James started work at an early age in the grocery business at Tub's grocery in Washington Park. He later went to work for Bruno's Incorporated for nearly 30 years. Becoming their first African American Store Manager and rising to District Manager.

He was a God-fearing self-made man. He never met a stranger and always had an infectious smile to share with everyone. His memorable talks will never be forgotten by all who were blessed to hear them.

James is preceded in death by, father; Jimmy Lamb, mother; Mary Lou Edwards, three sisters; McClimmie Moore, Ida Alexander, Oddie Lawrence.

He leaves to cherish his loving wife Mary Jefferson, 2 daughters Yulonda Jefferson, La Jarra (Cozel) Albright, 3 Sons, Tracy (Kay) Askew, Eric Jefferson, Barron (Christie) Jefferson. 8 Granddaughters, Andrea, Alisha, Breunna, Breshayala, Brittany, Alexis, Kacy, & Kyla. 2 grandsons, Miguel, & Branden. 5 great-granddaughters, Amari, Aria, Zoey, Alaiya, & Kennedy. 3 great-grandsons, Eli, Aidyn, & Karter. 2 sisters, Georgia (Richard) Ford, Geraldine (Billy) Harris. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and very good friends.

Viewing will be held Friday, Sept. 9, 2022 from 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. at The Good Shepherd.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. at Liberty Baptist Church in Alabaster with interment at Woodley Cemetery in Montgomery, AL.

Rev. Akeam Simmons – Officiating.