Music 32
Official Obituary of

James Thomas Scott III

February 21, 1960 ~ January 25, 2025 (age 64) 64 Years Old

James Scott III Obituary

James Scott III, affectionately known as Jamie, was on January 21, 1960, to the late James Scott Jr. and
Darnella Scott, in Cleveland, Ohio. James was a beacon of light and love to all who had the privilege of
knowing him. James embraced the world with his charm and warmth before peacefully passing away in
his hometown on January 25, 2025, after a valiant battle with a chronic illness.

James's life was marked by his unwavering dedication to family, faith, and community. On June 21,
1980, James met the love of his life and best friend, Nakita Flowers. Their union was one of deep love
and partnership and together they navigated the joys and challenges of life for 44 years. Together, they
raised their three beautiful daughter’s and a son. James's joy was multiplied by the presence of his 8
grandchildren
A proud graduate of John Adams High School in 1977, Jamie dedicated his professional life to serving his
community through various roles. He worked as a bus mechanic for Cleveland City Schools, contributed
to the Cleveland Metro Parks, and was a familiar face at Auto Zone. However, his passion for music led
him to volunteer as a musician for the Maple Heights High School Gospel Choir and as an organist for
several churches in the greater Cleveland area. For over 30 years, he served as one of the musicians at
Zion Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, enriching the congregation with his talent and unwavering faith.
Jamie's dedication to his faith was solidified on May 20, 1973, under the guidance of the late Dr. George
O. Steward and continued under the leadership of Pastor Reginald Coats.
Jamie's enthusiasm for life could be felt through his infectious love for music. Family gatherings,
especially the Sims & Scott Family Concerts & cookouts were cherished events where he reveled in the
company of loved ones. His ability in the kitchen matched his musical talent, as he could often be found
crafting delicious dishes like his world-famous cheeseburgers, crumb peach cobblers, greens and mixed
peas. No weather stopped James’s when it came to barbeque - "I was thinking about lighting the grill,"
he would say, even if it was snowing!

His care for his possessions, particularly his car, was meticulous; James made sure it shone, washing it by
hand or at the jet-off. He also enjoyed playing his numbers, routinely running to the store, watching old
school movies, and engaging in word search puzzles.
As we bid farewell to James Scott III, we celebrate a life rich in love, music, and faith. His memory will be
a melody that resonates through the lives of those he touched, a harmonious reminder of a man who
lived with passion and purpose. James life was a beautiful composition and his song will continue to
echo in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
His loving Wife Nakita, his daughters; Shatoya Woods (Mario), Sherria Granger (Curtis), and Shameka
Brantley (Royce), a son, James Scott IV. His 8 grandchildren Curtis, Royce, Jaden, Trinity, Asante, Jayvon,
Curria, granddaughter Destiny Brantley who preceded him in death. His brothers Dewayne, Keith
(Chantel), Antony (Anastasia), Augustus (Carol), and the late Ricky Flowers (Denise), as well as his sister
Linda Walters. 2 living uncles David Scott, Alvin (Michelle) Scott 2 aunts Audrey Burrus and Betty Green.
His parents, James Scott Jr. and Darnella Scott, preceded him in death. James’s legacy further lives on
through his cherished, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a myriad of friends who he treated as his own family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Thomas Scott III, please visit our floral store.


Services

Family Visitation and Viewing
Saturday
February 8, 2025

3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Gaines Funeral Home
5386 Lee Road
Maple Heights, OH 44137

Wake
Sunday
February 9, 2025

3:30 PM
Zion Chapel MBC
4234 Lee Road
Cleveland, OH 44128

Celebration of Life
Sunday
February 9, 2025

4:00 PM
Zion Chapel MBC
4234 Lee Road
Cleveland, OH 44128

Interment
Monday
February 10, 2025

11:00 AM
Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery

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