Elizabeth Cater James
Jul 11, 1934
Mar 29, 2022
Visitation 9:30-11:30 Saturday at New Covenant Baptist Church 1190 S. 40th Street Funeral 11:30am Saturday at the church. Burial Green Meadows Cemetery
Elizabeth Cater James was born July 11,1934, in Orrville, Alabama, to proud parents, Elijah and Lucy Young Cater. She was their only child. At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ into her heart and life and began her Christian journey. Her belief in Jesus Christ carried her through the trials and tribulations of life. She was always thankful for His grace and mercy. Her favorite Bible verse was John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
She was known for her athletic abilities and would proudly tell that she played basketball as a guard for Keith High School in Orrville, Alabama. She wore the number "7" on the back of her jersey. Not to boast, but her skills were legendary. She was talented in so many other areas as well. After graduating, she became a beautician that could perm, press and curl and style all the new and fancy hairdos shown in the latest magazines. Besides basketball, she enjoyed baking, fishing, listening to gospel music, singing, writing and composing music.
On November 5, 1955, Elizabeth Cater married Cornelius James, and God blessed them with six children. When the family moved to Louisville, Kentucky, in the Newburg area, she, along with her husband and children, became known as the “James Singers”, and they sang songs of praise and worship. When her husband was called into the ministry, Elizabeth was an awesome First Lady. By 1968, the James Singers were one of the most popular Christian singing groups around the region. The entire family was musically inclined. Her impact on the Newburg community will always be remembered. In addition to inspiring others to glorify God in all that was said and done, she was instrumental in developing the Faith Spirituals, another gospel group singing around the city and surrounding areas. She did a lot while still glorifying God in all her responsibilities until she couldn't. She retired from the Jefferson County Board of Education after 20 years of service.
Sadly, on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, Elizabeth Cater James was called to take her eternal rest. She leaves to cherish her memories, her children; Gladys Edwards, Bernie Richardson (George), Gloria Gilkey, Elizabeth Quinland, Lucy James, and Angelia Charles; caregiver and granddaughter, Tammie Cater; grandson, Elijah Cater whom she raised; 19 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; 19 great great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.