James Erkerd, age 77, a longtime resident of New Haven, Conn., entered eternal rest on Nov. 27, 2024, at Connecticut Hospice, Branford, Conn. James was predeceased by his parents, Wash David and Rosie Lee Erkerd, and brother, Freddie Erkerd.
Born in Montgomery, Alabama, on Jan. 8, 1947, James was a devoted member of First Calvary Baptist Church for 38 years where he faithfully served as a Deacon. He was married to his former wife, the late Ivory Dansby Erkerd, for 20 years.
He will be lovingly remembered by his son, Jahmari; daughter, Allyna (James) Cousins; grandchildren, Dreisen and Langston Heath; sisters, Rosie Mae and Patricia Erkerd; brothers, David Jr., Robert, and Willie Joe Erkerd; niece, Antoinette Erkerd; nephews, Christopher and Cameron Erkerd, and a host of beloved cousins, relatives and friends.
After graduating from Booker T. Washington High School in Montgomery, Alabama, James served in the US Navy and served in the Vietnam War. In 1967, James moved to New Haven. He began his career at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft and retired after 40 years of hard work and dedication. While working at Pratt & Whitney, he earned an associate’s degree from South Central Community College.
James truly loved his family, friends, work buddies, and church family. Always ready to laugh out loud and share a story, he was a loving father and grandfather who always gave generous gifts on birthdays and Christmas. He was eager to assist others and was reliable when called upon to lend a helping hand. James was a lover of music, especially Gospel, R&B from the 60s and 70s, and songs from his favorite singer, Sam Cooke. Being a member of the Male Chorus was the highlight of his life which brought him great joy.
He enjoyed watching westerns and sports and was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia 76ers fan. One of his joys was spending quality time and talking sports with his son, Jahmari, on the weekends.
He will be cherished forever in our hearts.