James "JC" C Rembert

Obituary For James "JC" C Rembert

James C. Rembert was born in Clearwater, Florida on July 17, 1921 to the late Thomas Jefferson (T.J.) and Bessie Mae Rembert ( nee Walker). James was the last surviving son of 5 brothers and 2 sisters. His deceased brothers are William, Algie, Quenton, Fred, Timothy and deceased sisters are Nell and Ruth. With the death of his brother Quenton, he became the surrogate father to his nieces, Wanda Rembert Arnold, Ruth Elaine Bryant and Beverly Ann Hamm. Likewise, after the death of the husband of his sister, Nell, he also became the father figure for Kenneth Sol Brown and his beloved niece Phyllis Ann Norman who preceded him in death. His nieces and nephews fondly called him “Uncle J.C.” as well as his many loving family and friends.

James loved the Lord and always tried and demonstrated to put God first in his life. He was a lifelong member of Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church where his parents were some of the first members. His father, Thomas Jefferson Rembert was one of the founding members of the church. One might ask, what role or position did he not hold at the church. To name a few, James was a Trustee, Church clerk and secretary, Soloist, Pianist and Financial Secretary. He held the position of Pastor’s Steward for 20 years and “retired” as Steward Emeritus.

Uncle J.C. received his education in the Pinellas County School System. He graduated from the “original Pinellas High School” located on the Heights. He joined the service during World War II and was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. James was awarded ARO Medal for Good Conduct and the World War II Victory Medal. He attended college on the G.I. Bill. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and subsequently, a Masters Degree in Education Administration both from Florida A & M University. His first teaching assignment was at Williams Elementary School. In 1957, James became the first Principal of Ridgecrest Elementary School located in Largo, Florida and there he remained for 26 years until his retirement in 1981.

James served not only as the Principal but also as the School Community Coordinator. For you see, he diligently worked toward the development of the community as well as the educational needs of the children. Baskin Corners, was the named of the area at the time of the building of the new school, which consisted of orange groves and as a agricultural area in the county. There were no streets, or utilities such as police, fire, health clinics or adequate housing. During his tenure as Principal, James provided the leadership for these issues to be addressed for the welfare of his student body and the local community.

He truly devoted his life to helping others. James was always approachable, kind and generous with his time. During his retirement years, he became an “unofficial” caregiver driver for seniors in our community for doctor’s appointments, groceries, medications or whatever the need might be. James was also an avid gardener and chef. And of course, he was famous for his homemade rolls and chicken and rice dish for family reunions, weddings and homegoing services. The secret recipe for his rolls remains a secret to this day. Although James received no formal training in horticulture, he was well known for his flowers, palm trees and collards. He would design flower arrangements for Sunday services and special holidays, weddings and often as a get well wishes for sick and shutin members and friends. When Uncle J.C. could no longer care for his beautiful plants, especially his palms and other flowers, he held an open house for the community members to give them a new home.

James exemplified the true meaning of both public and community service. He served on the Board of Trustees for the College Fund of Pinellas County for more than 25 years. His commitment was to ensure that talented and gifted students were awarded scholarships for higher education. Likewise, he was a mentor to so many young teachers and students throughout his lifetime always encouraging them to do their best and be their best. James was a longtime member of the Retired Principal Association of Pinellas County as well as the Teachers Association. He often stressed to his nieces, nephews and others the importance and value of an education as well as a strong work ethic.

James C. Rembert will be forever remembered by family and friends. He leaves as his legacy, his devoted nieces, Wanda Rembert Arnold, Esq., Ruth Elaine Bryant, and Beverly Ann Hamm of Clearwater, Florida; nephew, Dr. Kenneth Sol Brown of Savannah, Georgia; nephew, Timothy Jr. (Margaret) Rembert and niece, Kathy Bolton of Vienna, Georgia, Mona Evans of Smyrna, Tennessee; niece Joyce (Harry) Howard, of Tampa, Florida, nephews, David and Fred Rembert and Ethel Rembert of Safety Harbor Florida; first cousins, Mordecai Walker, Curtiss Wilson, Mary Walker Scott and Elizabeth James; Sister in Law, Tommie Rembert; 15 great nieces and nephews; 40 great great nieces and nephews; and 12 great great great nieces and nephews; and the Walker and Payton Families along with still a host of other loving cousins, relatives and friends.

Public Viewing will be Friday 6-8 PM at Mt. Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church 600 Jones Street, Clearwater 33755.

Home Going Celebration will be 11:00 AM Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Heritage United Methodist Church 2680 Landmark Drive, Clearwater 33761.

You must register to attend the funeral service see the "Register for Funeral" button on the left-hand side.

Entrusted Care To Smith-Young FH & Cremation Services.