James W. Erkins

Obituary For James W. Erkins

James Walter Erkins, born March 25, 1946, in Eufaula, Alabama, entered eternal rest after a life marked by faith, service, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He was the beloved son of the late Steve Erkins Sr. and Albertha Hill Erkins.

James received his early education at Britt Rosenwald Junior High and graduated from Glenville High School. At a young age, he confessed Christ and joined Rocky Mount Baptist Church in Eufaula. His spiritual journey continued in Milwaukee, where he united with Canaan Missionary Baptist Church and faithfully served as a Deacon. Throughout his life, James was known as a powerful Christian whose spirit-filled counsel touched countless lives.

Following high school, James moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he was drafted into the United States Army. He began his service as an Infantryman and later reclassified as a Military Policeman during his assignment in the Republic of South Korea. He honorably served for 18 months, earning the rank of Sergeant before returning home.

After his military service, James relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He worked diligently to become a supervisor at A.O. Smith Corporation and later continued his career with the Milwaukee County Transit System, where he remained until his retirement.

On October 29, 1977, James united in holy matrimony with Gloria D. Bolden in Milwaukee. Their bond was one of deep love and companionship, and they walked life’s journey hand in hand for nearly five decades. Their earthly separation was brief—Gloria preceded him in death by only nine days.

James leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Cicely Burnett of Sacramento, California; two sisters, Julia E. Owens of Eufaula, Alabama, and Vernese Latham of Columbus, Ohio; sister/niece Lynette (James) Franklin of Columbus, Ohio; and one brother, Moses (Vivian) Erkins of Eufaula, Alabama. He also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever remember his kindness, wisdom, and steady presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his devoted wife, Gloria B. Erkins; seven sisters—Emma Jackson, Annie Walton, Annie Dean Thomas, Thelma Forte, Lizzie Turner, Alma Cliatt, and Jessie Chisolm; and three brothers—Steve Erkins Jr., John Erkins Sr., and Wondrus Erkins.

James Walter Erkins lived a life of purpose, humility, and faith. His legacy endures in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

PLACE OF SERVICE: Silas Grove M.B. Church #2, Kosciusko, MS

DATE OF SERVICE: Tuesday 05/26/2026 at 11:00 a.m.

INTERMENT: North MS Veterans Cemetery, Kosciusko, MS

VIEWING: Monday 05/25/2026 at 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Send flowers to the service of James W. Erkins