James Willie Bledsoe was the first born child to Johnnie Bledsoe and Essie Mae Hooks-Bledsoe on November 25, 1928 in Otto, Texas. On September 29, 2021, he peacefully departed this life in his home surrounded by loved ones.

James is survived by his loving wife of 72 years Augusta; five children: Linda Bledsoe, James Bledsoe, Charles Bledsoe, Sheila Maddox, and Tasha Maddox; seven grandchildren: Shannah Young, Lamar Powell, Charles Bledsoe Jr., James Bledsoe III, Crystal Miller, Deron Bledsoe, and Dorehin Austin; brother: Kirby Bledsoe; three sisters-in-law, nine great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to do so are encouraged to donate to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org). Up until he was hospitalized, James was an active caregiver diligently making sure that his loved ones living with dementia were well taken care of.