Otha Lee James was born December 23, 1932 in Piney Woods, NC  to the late William Anthony James and Martha Roberson. He departed this life on April 15, 2018 .

Otha Lee was educated at E. J. Hayes High School, Williamston, NC. He gave his life to the Lord when he was 20 years old, at Long Ridge Baptist Church in Plymouth under the leadership of Rev. Cotton. As a young adult he enjoyed singing in a group called Mighty Clouds of Plymouth and he had a love for baseball. As a beloved member of Long Ridge Baptist Church, he served as Head Deacon, Superintendent of Sunday School, member of the Senior Choir, and Male Choir.

On October 16, 1953, Otha Lee married the love of his life, Elsie Mae Boston. To this union they were blessed with six sons and a daughter.

In 1995, Otha retired from Weyerhaeuser, where he served as a Senior Mechanic.

Otha Lee is survived by his wife- Elsie Mae James; five sons- Irish Lee James (Cynthia), Stanley Ray James (Wysonza), Dannie E. James (Cynthia), Linward E. James (Rona), Timothy V. James (Monica); one daughter- Vanessa Joyner; 23 grandchilden, 14 great grandchildren, one brother- Bobby James and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death in death by both parents and one son, Randy James.

Funeral services were 1:00PM April 21, 2018 at Long Ridge Missionary Baptist Church wit Rev. Dr. General James, pastor, officiating. Burial was in Moore Family
Cemetery.