James Darnell Prestley

Obituary For James Darnell Prestley

As the sun sets on the remarkable life of James Darnell Prestley, we celebrate a man whose journey began on August 22, 1951, in the bustling city of Youngstown, OH. Born into the vibrant tapestry of African American heritage as the son of Charles Winphrie & Geneva Prestley, his spirit was as resilient as the steel that surrounded him.

James, known to family and friends as Jimmy D, transitioned on Thursday May 30, 2024, at the Youngstown campus of Mercy Health. However, he leaves as a testament of a fulfilled life, an enduring legacy of unconditional love, conquering hope and inspiring vision.

Jimmy D was an East “Golden Bear” High School graduate and attained his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Youngstown State University. He was previously employed at General Motors in Lordstown, Ohio and worked for Pratt & Whitney out of Hartford, Connecticut.

Embracing the spirit of entrepreneurship, he was the proprietor and manager of Prestley’s Seafood Palace. His dedication to his successful enterprise was unwavering and without compromise, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of the Youngstown community.

In the heart of Youngstown, where his roots ran deep, James touched the lives of many. Jimmy D enjoyed fishing, hunting, and cooking for his family and friends. He also loved to tell jokes and embellish the truth to evoke robust laughter among those in his presence.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his four sons, James “Boobie” (Tawanna) Traylor, Keith (Brandy) Prestley, Gene (Emily) Hightower, and Kariem Prestley. Gone but never forgotten, Jimmy D will be fondly remembered by his three siblings, Carole Prestley, Sharon Winphrie, & Charles Raymond Winphrie.

His enduring legacy of love and strength will continue through his grandchildren, four great grandchildren, as well as the countless scores of loved ones to cherish the memories they have been blessed to share with him!

Now assuming his place among the ancestors for eternity, Jimmy D was greeted at the gates of Heaven by his mother Geneva Prestley, father Charles Winphrie, brother Casper “Buck” Winphrie, and son Stephen Prestley who preceded him in death.

In the twilight of his time on earth, let us celebrate the life of James D. Prestley, a man whose light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts. As we gather to pay tribute, let us remember a man who lived with purpose and passion, leaving an imprint on all who knew him.

Join the Prestley family in honoring James's life at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Avenue in Youngtown on Saturday, June 8, 2024, where we will come together for a public viewing and family visitation at 9:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 10:00 am, where Rev. Kenneth L. Simon will serve as the celebrant.

At the close of the ceremony, we will bid farewell to James as he begins his final journey to the place where he will be laid to rest at Tod Homestead Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Avenue. May his spirit soar free, and may his memory be a beacon of love and inspiration for all.

At this most intimate time, the beloved family of James Darnell Prestley elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care and After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500

DON’T…

Don’t spend too much time in mourning – tears are for the sad.

I left to be with Jesus, this should make you glad!

Don’t waste your hours grieving, there’s no need to feel distress.

I’m tired of life frustrations, I had to get some rest.

Don’t vex yourself with questions, or try to reason why?

Life, for me here, has ended, it came my time to die.

Don’t lose the love I gave to you, feed it with your care,

Grow it with devotion and spread it everywhere!

Amen

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