James Wesley Sylvester was born on March 25, 1952,
in Newton, TX, to Namon Ridgeway and Pauline Sylvester.
He was one of many siblings, the late Nathaniel Harriel,
the late Myriel Sylvester, the late Gloria Sylvester, Cynthia
Ann Thomas, the late Freida Lynn Thomas Prater, Evelyn
Ridgeway, Camille Elam Ridgeway, the late Gerald Ridgeway,
Namon Ridgeway, Jr. (Regina), Debra Nichols (James),
Cynthia Thomas, and Raymond Ridgeway.

James was first blessed with a son, Caesario Brooks. He later
married Jacqueline Marie Sylvester and through that union
welcomed James Avery Sylvester. He also lovingly accepted
and raised LaTorshia Diggles-Martel and LaShunda Garrett as his own children. Later, he married LaWanda Shedd-
Sylvester.

James graduated from Newton High School where he
distinguished himself as a talented basketball player. His
athletic ability earned him a basketball scholarship to Hill
Junior College where he continued his education while
pursuing his passion for the game. In recognition of his
outstanding athletic achievements, James was inducted into
the Hill College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016, an honor
that reflected his lasting impact on the college's basketball
program.

Following his time at Hill Junior College, James proudly
enlisted in the United States Air Force where he faithfully
served his country. A er completing his military service, he
began a career with Dixie Chemical Company in La Porte,
TX.  rough hard work and dedication, James devoted more
than 30 years of service to the company before retiring.

James Wesley Sylvester, age 74, peacefully departed this life
and entered eternal rest on June 13, 2026.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory: his children, James
Avery Sylvester, LaTorshia Diggles-Martel, and LaShunda
Garrett; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with
a loving family, cherished friends, and all whose lives were
touched by his kindness, wisdom, and love.