Olivia Mae James

Her Endearing Story OLIVIA MAE JAMES was the answer to her mother’s prayer. Her mother often shared how hard she prayed for one baby—a beautiful little girl! Finally, on October 24, 1942, in Baltimore, Maryland, God granted this desire and the marriage of Wade Lonaus Carter, Sr. and Magalene (nee Wilson) was blessed with the birth of a child so tiny her mother had to put doll socks on her tiny feet. Olivia was a well-loved little girl, and this love taught her to open her heart and share her own love with so many. Other children would be born into the family, and she learned to lavish love on each sister, brother, nephews, nieces, cousins, friend, etc. It was as if Olivia’s arms knew no limits to the comfort and love she was able to share. Born into a military family, Olivia’s education occurred in many places via a whirlwind of destinations that included Baltimore, Texas, Kentucky, California, Panama, and finally culminated in Baltimore, Maryland. The journey included many experiences and treasured moments that further shaped her beautiful and caring personality. She loved to make new friends, to dance, and to be a “little mommy” to younger relatives and friends. Olivia gave her life to God and professed her belief in Christ Jesus as the Living Son of God as a teenager in Seaside, California when the Family joined Victory Temple, Church of God in Christ. Bishop Rudolph Martin was the under-shepherd who guided her personal and familial growth through awesome Bible studies, programs for the youth, and awesome Church barbeques that stemmed from Bishop Martin’s love of hunting and fellowship! As the family traveled, her father continued to promote spiritual growth through in-home biblical studies and extensive outings. Olivia rededicated her life to Christ as a young woman at Holy Trinity, Church of God in Christ, Baltimore., Maryland, under the pastorate of Elder Arthur R. Shields. One Sunday, a handsome young Navy man with a winning, beautiful smile came to Carter’s Temple, Church of God in Christ (745 West Fayette Street, Baltimore, Maryland) and caught the eye of every woman (young and old) as he went around to put money in the offering. He spotted Olivia and asked her father if he might come-a-courting. Later that day, Walter James, Jr. came to the Carter home and the bratty younger sister answered the door and grilled him: “I saw you at Church today! You want to see ‘Poochie!’” His response was “Yes, please tell her ‘Pug’ is here!” Following this initial date Walter James, Jr. and Olivia became “Pug and Poochie” to everyone! Their love and union was quick, fast, and enduring. They were married in 1964 and were inseparable until her husband’s sudden death in 1981. She loved her coworkers and employment at Life Like Products (1600 Union Avenue, Baltimore). Many local and worldwide families enjoyed the trains, ornaments, miniature houses/buildings, greenery, Christmas items, etc., she lovingly and creatively painted in her Painter/Packer position. Following a stroke due to diabetes, Olivia could no longer take care of herself and needed around-the-clock care. In each setting, she was energetic and participated in all areas of her care, but especially excelled in creating jewelry, painting, and winning awards at BINGO! At the time of her demise, Olivia was a resident of Autumn Care Nursing Home in Baltimore, Maryland where she was well known and liked by her fellow residents and caretakers. Olivia enjoyed her family and friends. She did not give natural birth to children, but became a surrogate mother to her brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great relatives. She was an excellent friend to have on your side and always knew all the neighbors, their children, and their life stories. Her sweet personality made it possible for everyone to easily return her love and trust! Even dogs followed Olivia home! When the pandas arrived at the Washington, D.C. National Zoo, Walter and Olivia packed all the little nieces, nephews, and small cousins in their car and off they went! It was her pleasure to spoil each of the little ones collectively and individually! The family that loved and appreciated Olivia Mae James consisted of those who preceded her in death: Her husband: Walter James, Jr. Parents: Wade Lonaus Carter, Sr. and Magalene Carter. Brother: Wade Lonaus Carter, Jr. (Della Elliott Carter), Barbara Burrell (Earl). She will forever rest in the hearts of the earthly siblings who will miss her love, humor, respect, and care: Sister: Reverend Cornella Carter-Taylor (Wade*). Brother: Blane DeBori Carter (Elaine Lee Carter). Loving James Family members who were Olivia’s by marriage: Her Pastor: Overseer Cornelius James, Sr. and her First Lady: Dr. Olivia C. James. Brother-in-Law: David James (deceased) (Mary James). Sister-in-Laws: Pastor Gloria Felder, Jerlene, Georgia Casey (deceased), and Juanita James (deceased). Nieces and nephews in the order of their birth: Richard D. Carter, Maurice A. (Zenobia Wilson Carter), Adrian P. Motley, Regina P. Thompson (deceased), Cynthia A. Carter-Spearman (Christopher*), Cornell Jerome Thompson, (Dynetta), Darnell Thompson, Jerrell Thompson, Kimberly M. Taylor, Eric A. Carter, Teressa Carter, Dorothea Nichole Thompson. There are so many greats, great-greats, etc. She will also be fondly remembered by cousins with whom she was very close: Zeldar Wilson (Charles), Gertrude Thompson, Delores Gantt, Ernestine Williams (Matthew), Esther Toles Johnson, Glorestine Toles, Darlene (Tyree) Gregory. This list could go on and on because the Lord blessed Olivia to thrive and have a wealth of family and friends (like Muriel Hebron) that are far too numerous to count. Having done all she could do on this side of glory, Olivia answered God’s call to come Home on Monday, October 2, 2023, at 5:17 am. From Sinai Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland to the beauty of Heaven—to bask forever in the presence of the LORD ALMIGHTY! Until we, the living join you, rest sweet Olivia! * Though divorce ended these unions, noted because they were dearly loved always by Olivia.

Tributes

Olivia Mae James

October 24, 1942 - October 2, 2023