Jerome Anthony James Sr.

Jerome Anthony “Big G” James, Sr., 63, of Scott, Louisiana, a native of New Iberia, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Sage Specialty Hospital in Lafayette.

Known affectionately as Big G, Jerome was a dedicated father, grandfather, and brother whose vibrant spirit and love of life made him the heart of every gathering. He attended schools in Iberia Parish and worked for many years as an offshore sandblaster. He was also well regarded for his skill and pride in automotive detailing. Those who knew him will remember his ability to bring joy and laughter to any room he entered.

He is survived by his wife, Verda Brooks James of Oakland, Tennessee; eleven daughters, Chacity Hill (Joseph, Jr.) and Chaning James (Clifton Cormier, Jr.) of Opelousas, Christy James Broussard (Arthur) of Church Point, Montrea Harrison Antoine (Shane, Jr.), Mary Wright, Porsha Polk, Kyanna Frank, and Quanisha Johnson (Travonta) all of Lafayette, Chakeia James of Shreveport, Kirby Jackson (Willis) of Oakland, Tennessee, and Jytazion Gobert of Baton Rouge; eight sons, Jerome James, Jr. (Ebony) of Saint Martinville, Jamal James of Opelousas, Kaylan Lewis, D’Andre Brooks, Xavier Brooks and Keon Thomas all of Lafayette, Travon Polk and Tramaine Polk of Jeanerette; bonus daughter Rakeita Durio of Opelousas; forty-one grandchildren; one great-grandchild, Kaizyn James; one sister, Carolyn James Johnson (Jules) of New Iberia; six brothers, Donald James (Lisa), Ronald James (Shelia), Jessie James, Jr. (Gertrude), Terry James, Calvin James and Kerry Lee James (Debra) all of New Iberia; two godchildren, Anthony Mallery and Alton Smothers; one aunt, Annie Mae Johnson of New Iberia; godmother Katherine Walker; special cousin Wanda Smothers; and four close friends, Rev. Albert Lee Hill, Pastor Darren Sophus, Sr., Christopher Carter, and John Nixon, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie James, Sr. and Mary Herbert James; one brother, Richard James, Sr.; one sister, Ivy Marie James; sister-in-law Louise James; one nephew, Keith Johnson; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.