Gwendolyn Louise James, 80, transitioned peacefully on October 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving children.

While her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of her family and friends, they remain grateful for a life well lived and the countless lives she touched through her faith, love, wisdom, and service. Her devotion to God, family, education, and community will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

Gwendolyn, affectionately known as “Gwen,” was born on October 3, 1946, in Steubenville, Ohio, to Millard McKinney and Pearl Eva Holsey-McKinney. The middle of three children, she was raised in Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she developed the faith that guided her throughout her life. She received her education through the Steubenville City School District.

A woman of unwavering faith, Gwen taught her children and grandchildren to “Trust God no matter what” and to continually “Praise God.” These principles became a lasting foundation for her family.

Gwen united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Jesse James Jr., in 1960. Together, they built a loving home and were blessed with eight children. Their marriage reflected enduring love, commitment, and devotion, leaving an example for generations to follow.

Dedicated to her family and community, Gwen served for many years as president of the PTA. Through this role, she helped strengthen the partnership between families and schools while advocating for fairness, accountability, and educational excellence.

Gwen also devoted 33 years of service to healthcare. She began her career in the Dietary Department at Ohio Valley Hospital, later worked as a medical abstractor in the Medical Records Department at Trinity East, and concluded her career as a ward clerk before retiring.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jesse James Jr.; her parents, Millard McKinney and Pearl Eva Holsey-McKinney; her son, Alphonso James; her daughter, Retired Captain Roxeve James; her sisters, Marilyn J. McKinney and Joyce B. McKinney Fordham; her nieces, Deneva and Maria McKinney; her maternal grandparents, Ella-Lee West-Holsey and Wyatt Holsey; and her paternal grandparents, Haywood and Lucy Payne-McKinney.

She leaves to cherish her memory six beloved children: Jesse James III of Ohio; cosmetologist Aphynna James; Retired SFC Rodney (Retired SFC Katina) James of Ohio; Minister Metta (Elder Joe) McNeill of North Carolina; Dr. Deborah James of North Carolina; and Retired SFC Alicia James of Georgia.

She also leaves nine cherished grandchildren: LaNeé (Pastor Norries) Hood Sr. of Ohio; Jerome (Dr. Racquel) Holmes Jr. of North Carolina; RN Salém James of Washington; LaShaude (Dorianna) James of Texas; Jessica Pulliam of Georgia; ShaKoya James of Ohio; Tomara Pulliam Jr. of Ohio; Leyah James of Ohio; and Rodney James Jr. of Ohio.

Her legacy continues through her nine precious great-grandchildren: Kent III, Caleb and Savannah Holmes, Justice and Champion James, Kaiden and Lucas Mendenhall, and Yahiym and Royalty Pulliam.

Gwen also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her love, guidance, and unwavering faith.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 12 noon at Gregory-Martin Funeral Home, Steubenville Chapel, 255 S. 7th Street, Steubenville, Ohio. Interment will follow at Union Cemetery.

Rest from your labor and receive your eternal reward.