Leona Emelda James

Leona Emelda James was born on February 2, 1945, to the late Henrietta Horsford and George James, and was the twelfth of thirteen children in a large and loving family. In early 1969, she migrated to the United States, where she built a new life marked by determination and quiet strength. A hardworking woman, Leona took pride in her work and retired from St. Luke’s Hospital after many years of dedicated service.

She was known for her kind and generous spirit, and she held a deep love for her family, especially her nieces and nephews, whom she adored. Each year she looked forward with great excitement to her annual Christmas trips to Antigua, where she delighted in finding ways to bring joy to those she loved. Leona also shared a lifelong friendship with Daisy Toppin, a bond that began in the third grade and endured throughout their lives.

Above all, Leona’s heart belonged to her family. She is survived by her brother, Errol James, and her sister, Roma Hill; her beloved niece, Aloma Shaw; her devoted daughter, Jeneil, and son-in-law, Ron, who cared for her with love and tenderness as her health declined; and her treasured grandchildren, Kasmira, Ronin, and Randall, who brought her immense joy. She was predeceased by her siblings Muriel, Genevieve, Doreen, Laurel (Precious), Hyacinth, Leon, Sonny, Clement, Pete, and Lucien.

Leona will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the love she freely shared with family and friends. Her kindness, laughter, and loving spirit remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.