Effie Mai James

Effie Mai Brunner James, age 88, of Riviera Beach, Florida, departed this world peacefully on March 10, 2025. She was born on September 8, 1936, to her devoted parents, Delbert and Syretha Brunner, in Columbus, Mississippi. Very shortly thereafter, they moved to Canton, Ohio. Effie embraced life with a warmth and kindness that endeared her to everyone she met.  At the age of 13 she was accepted into a private preparatory Christian School in Tennessee, the Nashville Christian Institute (NCI). She met many friends from all over the country and was on the honor roll continually. She even played women’s basketball! After graduating from NCI, she came back home and graduated from Timken High School. 

Effie then attended Southwestern Christian College (SWCC) where she met Ivory James, Jr. Upon graduating from there they were married and had four daughters. Her journey through life was marked by love, laughter, and a genuine “competitive” spirit that radiated joy. She was able to share of herself in Plainview, Texas, Albany, Georgia, Huntington, West VA., Dayton OH., Cleveland OH., and finally Riviera Beach FL. 

Effie had a unique ability to connect with others, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her. She absolutely loved teaching her ladies class “Ladies On The Go”, where she shared the Bible and profound wisdom that she had learned along the way. Effie overcame several obstacles in her life journey with impeccable grace. She was always being the example that the Lord charges us to be. Many questioned how she did it. She would answer, “But God”.

Effie had three co-workers that she wanted to be remembered: Naomi Belk, Susan Talton, and Diane Franklin. She was happily in a group of ladies at E Ave Community Church. They were called the Golden Girls: Winnie Ramsey, Francis Smith, and Geraldine Edmonds. There are also a few other notable people that she spoke of fondly: Doris Savage, Roseanne Brown, Mary DeGraffenreidt, and Elaine Alvin. Effie’s family and friends are left to treasure the countless moments shared with her — each story, each smile, and each heartfelt conversation serving as a reminder of her beautiful spirit and her strong belief in God. Though she has taken her leave from this earthly realm, her essence will continue to resonate in the lives of those who were touched by her gentleness and grace.

Preceding her in death are her parents Delbert and Syretha Brunner. Brothers: James (Eula Mae) Brunner, Johnny Johnson, Delbert “Dat” Brunner, Aaron Allen Brunner. Sisters: Ruth (J.W.) Slay, Linda Jean Brunner, Katherine Brunner, Lily Esther Brunner.

She leaves to cherish her memories: Brothers: Augustine Brunner of Clearwater, FL and Paul Brunner of Canton, OH. Sisters: Sarah Pride of Chicago, IL, and Helen Brunner of Canton, OH. She leaves to cherish her memories: Daughters Rita Lorain James, Shelia Yvonne James, Ivory Lynn (Ricky) Hunter, Yolonda Jovita James. Effie was also blessed with 12 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. And very special cousins Oscar Kidd and WillaDean Kidd. She was a very special mother, sister.

PS colors for the funeral service are Pastel. 

Thank you from the family.