James Sherfield, Jr.

       James Sherfield, Jr. gained his angel wings on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. James was the oldest son of the late James and Harriett B. Sherfield. James’ sister, Barbara J. Sherfield, and his son, Donovan L. Sherfield have preceded him in death.

       James was born at the Portsmouth Naval Hospital on March 23, 1953. He attended Mt. Hermon Elementary School and S.H. Clark Junior High School in Portsmouth. He was a graduate of I.C. Norcom High School “The Class That Never Was” in 1973.

       James accepted Jesus Christ as his savior at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church in Portsmouth. He was baptized in his early youth by the late Rev. Irvin Waters.

       He later joined Mt. Gilead Missionary Baptist Church, where he truly loved singing in the Men’s Chorus and served as Grill Master for the Men’s Grill Team. He was a volunteer for Thanksgiving and Christmas giveaways.

       He retired from the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. He was employed as a shipfitter (Shop 11) for 33 years.

       James is survived by his wife of 44 years, Deborah A. Sherfield, of Norfolk, Va; two sons, James Sherfield, III, and Brandon L. Sherfield, both of Norfolk, Va; one grandson, Brandon L. Sherfield, Jr., of Norfolk, Va; sister, Deborah S. Billingsley (Michael L.), of Dumfries, Va; nephew, Michael E. Billingsley (Samantha); niece, Rachel C. Billingsley; great niece, Olivia C. Billingsley; brother, Arthur C. Sherfield (Judy T.), of Odenton, Maryland; nephew, Anthony Hill, of Homeland, Ca. James also leaves to cherish his memory a host of friends, former coworkers, and church members, whom he loved dearly.

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