of Little Rock, AR
May 30, 1926 - July 24, 2025
Dr. David Hamilton James, Jr. passed away peacefully on Thursday July 24, 2025. He was born on May 30, 1926 in Memphis, TN, the son of Dr. David H. James, Sr. and May (Rudd) James. Raised in Memphis, he lived most of his adult life in West Memphis, AR with his bride of 70 years, Ann (Wrape) James. They moved to Little Rock in 2017 to be closer to family.
Dr. James attended Little Flower Elementary School in Memphis, TN. As a teen, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and graduated from Christian Brothers High School, serving as president of his senior class. He then enrolled at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, where he earned letters in both varsity wrestling and football. In 1943, he played on the "only undefeated football team'' before enlisting in the Army in 1944. During WWII, he served as a mortarman in the 42nd Rainbow Division and assisted in the liberation of the 30,000 inmates at Dachau concentration camp. In recognition of his bravery, David earned a Bronze Star medal. Following V-E Day, he studied philosophy at Corpus Christi College at the University of Oxford before returning to Vanderbilt to finish his undergraduate and medical degrees. He did his pediatric residency at St Louis Children's Hospital, during which time he met his bride, Ann.
Dr. James started his career as a pediatrician holding positions in Hot Springs, AR, West Memphis, AR and St. Joseph's Hospital in Memphis. When St. Jude Children's Research Hospital opened in Memphis in 1962, he admitted the first patient. Soon thereafter, he joined the faculty at the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center and Department of Pediatrics. Later, Dr. James established outpatient pediatric care in the Children & Youth (C&Y) Clinic in a low-income area in North Memphis. In addition to providing affordable, quality healthcare, Dr. James wrote grants to keep the doors open. He was beloved by his patients, their families, medical colleagues and the surrounding communities.
At the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, he was an accomplished member of the Pediatric department, educating decades of pediatric trainees. Over the years, Dr. James never turned down a house call and many of his former patients credited him for improving their lives as children. He participated in a medical mission in Haiti and was recognized for his post graduate work in health care rights at Georgetown University School of Medicine. After a fulfilling career, David retired in 1993 and served nationally as an expert (including congressional testimony) on the effects of lead poisoning.
He was honored with the Community Service Award by the National Conference of Christians and Jews, the Humanitarian of the Year by the Memphis Variety Club, the Outstanding Pediatric Teaching Award from the University of Tennessee and induction into the Christian Brothers High School Hall of Fame.
Dr. James was an avid sports fan, planning family trips to St. Louis for Cardinal baseball games and always followed his beloved Vanderbilt Commodores. He enjoyed reading, swimming, playing chess and crossword puzzles. His love of sports, both watching and participating in them, was passed down to his children.
Dr. James' devotion to God and the Catholic faith was at the center of his life. He was an engaged parishioner of St. Michael's Catholic Church in West Memphis and served on the school board, lectored and sang in the choir. He was a sponsor for Catholic newcomers and could often be found at home on his knees praying the rosary. Being part of this church family was a major pillar of his life. Dr. James' faith led him to join the Serra Club, a Catholic organization dedicated to fostering vocations. He served as Regional President and attended International Serra Club conventions. Those meetings included children's activities, so they often served as memorable summer family vacations.
Education was also a priority for David and Ann. They sacrificed to ensure that their children attended Catholic grade schools and advanced to complete higher education. Several of his children carried on his drive to provide excellent health care, with two sons and two grandchildren becoming physicians and one daughter practicing nursing and social work. Others have practiced in law, engineering, journalism, financial planning, business and missionary work. David always enjoyed hearing about his children's and grandchildren's adventures in whatever interests they pursued.
David wished to be remembered for dedication to family. He leaves behind his beloved, Ann and his children, Mary James (Bruce Plantz), Paul (Sarah) James, David James, John (Kristie) James, Charles (Laura) James, Theresa James, Robert (Patty) James, Richard James, Martha James, Mark (Dana) James, Shannon (Brian) Taylor. He had 21 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son, Richard and two siblings, Tom James and Ann Rudd Weldon.
David had an endearing sense of humor that lasted into his golden years. He was well-liked by all and never met a stranger " they were simply friends he hadn't met. In short, he was brilliant, loving, fun and a man of faith who loved ice cream, the symphony and afternoon drives to see the big sights in the little city. He will be remembered for generations to come.
The family is grateful for the care he received at the UAMS Institute on Aging and the dedicated SeniorKare caregivers he had at Woodland Heights in Little Rock, AR. A rosary (5:30 pm) and visitation (6:00-8:00 pm) will be held Thursday, July 31st at Roller-Citizen Funeral Home in West Memphis, AR. A funeral mass will be held at St. Michael's Catholic Church on Friday August 1st at 10:00 am. It will be immediately followed by a graveside burial ceremony at Crittenden Memorial Park in Marion, AR and then a reception at St. Michael's Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to St. Michael's Catholic Church.
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30 Condolence(s)
Jeanne S. Jemison
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
I was so privileged to work alongside Dr. James at the C&Y clinic, my first faculty position in the department of pediatrics. He was the most genuine, caring, and kind human being - a gracious teacher, and patient doctor who was always steady. He related to all in ways that helped us (whether staff, residents, students or patients) know we were in the presence of a humble and benevolent human. Seeing that depth of character in action changes one. I was changed and will always remain grateful for him.
Mary Laughlin Fenton
Sunday, August 17, 2025
My sincere condolences to all the James Family. You father lived quite a life and may he rest in peace.
Ted Wray
Thursday, July 31, 2025
So many wonderful memories of Dr James and the entire James Family.
Praying for the James Family.
Judy Hilliard Ward
Thursday, July 31, 2025
Prayers for peace and comfort for the family. Dr. James was one of the greats and impacted so many lives.
Dwight Bratton
Thursday, July 31, 2025
My prayers are with your family on this day as you celebrate an incredible person!
Lance Click
Thursday, July 31, 2025
To the James's family I am sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts. I met Dr. James a few times, but have the pleasure of knowing 3 of his children. All great folks.
Jeanie Martz
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
So sorry for your loss. He was a great person. My prayers are there for you. Jeanie Hale Martz
Bobby Henry
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Have had the pleasure of knowing about everyone in ur family.ur dad and mom always where so nice to me and the entire Henry family. Love u"ll.prayers to u"ll.
Megan Murphy
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Beautiful Life...indeed his kindness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit lives on through his incredible family members. RIP
Teresa Gunter
Monday, July 28, 2025
Dr. James was amazing. I cannot count the number of times my mom called him to ask advice on what she should do for one ofus. One time I remember my hand got slammed into a door, she called Dr. James and before I knew it, We were soaking it and ice water full of Epson salt.
No of our families prayers, love, and support.
Teresa Gunter
Shirley Elam
Monday, July 28, 2025
Mrs. James, I will never forget Dr. James' kindness when I was his secretary at UT. Not only for me but EVERYONE he worked with. I so appreciated you and Dr. James driving over for my retirement party. l thank God for just the privilege of knowing him and all he contributed to this world.
Diane Lawrence
Monday, July 28, 2025
David and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your father. He always seemed to me like he would live forever due to his strong faith, sense of humor and love for life! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Richie and Alecia Dunn
Monday, July 28, 2025
What a life and what a man. God surely blessed this world with your Dad David.
God Bless you our friend
We love you all
❤️🙏
Bob Simmons
Monday, July 28, 2025
A life well-lived
Cassandra Meyer
Monday, July 28, 2025
What an amazing life & humanitarian loss.
Andy Luttrell
Monday, July 28, 2025
Prayers for the James Family,
Andy Luttrell
Andy Spooner
Monday, July 28, 2025
Learning from a physician like Dr. James changes you. I am sitting here with tears in my eyes, awash in a rush of memories about my time as a student and a resident at the C & Y clinic. Mamas and babies and kids came is with all sorts of issues, but Dr. James knew what to do, and gave confidence that someday I'd know, too. On days when I feel like I did a good job as a pediatrician, I think of him. I will never forget him.
Oren Vance
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Thanks so much John for sharing your father’s story with Judy and I. Your father led a led a blessed life and we are all better for his caring and compassionate nature. You and your siblings have really great role models in your parents. Stay close to your mom, she needs you all.
Brian and Janet Rudd
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Dear Ann and all your family, We are so sorry at your loss. May our Lord and the Father of all comfort bring you all comfort and peace in knowing that all of God’s promises are true. “Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die..” John 11: 25, 26. We remember with deep gratitude that after our daughters were born a little more than 40 years ago, you, Ann, and David, came to visit us. David examined them to make sure they were ok. We felt so blessed by your kindness.
Sara Dollar
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. What an extraordinary life he led. There’s no doubt he will be remembered fondly. - The Dollar Family
Susan Erdman
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Sending love and gratitude to the James family as I remember your exceptional father and grandfather, Dr. James. Any of us who knew him know how wise, kind and holy he was! What a blessing to know him.
William Silvers
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Not having the opportunity to meet this man of eminence and a blessed memory, I can adjust to his legacy by knowing his son John James, who carries forth His father‘s spirit with his own accomplishments, a family, and faith and professionalism and contributions to his community and his patients. May his memory be a blessing. Shalom.
David Gossage
Sunday, July 27, 2025
John and Charles,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. He did so many great things. Amazing he admitted the first patient to St Jude’s. Someone we can aspire to emulate.
Best,
Goose
Joseph Franchere
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Thinking of you all, and sending deepest condolences. I have such fond memories of your family and, in particular, of the time your dad made an evening house call to see me when my parents were at their wits end with whatever illness I had. I remember his little black bag and how kind he was, and how much better we all felt after his visit. Love to you all.
Sara Dollar
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. What an extraordinary life he led. There’s no doubt he will be remembered fondly. - The Dollar Family
Martha Tull
Sunday, July 27, 2025
I am so sorry about your dad/your father-in-law/your granddad. Thinking of you all and sending love and prayers.
Nan Baylard
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Charles and all the James family, what an absolutely amazing legacy your dad has left. Prayers to you and family. Much love Nan, Scott, Beau and Jack
Kay Cagle
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Paul and family I wondered why your dad wasn’t at 4:00 mass today and when I got home I saw his obituary. He was a great man and raised obviously good loving children. I
have admired y’all for being so devoted to your parents. ( I used to live at 2800 N Fillmore)
Matthew Glass
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Paul and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great man and loved by everybody. You all will be in my prayers.
Karen Ward
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Shannon and family, your daddy must’ve been quite an amazing man. What a wonderful legacy he leaves. My heart hurts for you, praying the Lord’s sufficient grace and love cover you all. Love you dear one. Isaiah 41:10