James Anthony Pitts, 49 affectionately known as "Champ", a most devoted son and father transitioned from labor to reward after suffering a heart attack on the morning of January 1, 2022. James was born to parents, Willie James and Lorraine Pitts on February 16, 1972, on a snowy day in Bridgeton, New Jersey. It has been said that the beauty and the purity of the snow, was much like his heart for the Lord, he was indeed a true worshipper and never missed an opportunity to find himself in the presence of the almighty.

James was educated in the Cumberland Regional School District. As a child he was involved in many activities' soccer, cub scouts, and church activities at Union Baptist Temple where he was baptized on March 1, 1987, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Albert Morgan and became a Junior Deacon. He loved his pets and getting together with family and friends.

His friends and acquaintances remember him fondly for his sense of humor, he was always the life of the party. After graduating in 1990 from high school, he continued his studies at Dudley Beauty School where he obtained his Cosmetology License. Following his aspirations, he moved to Maryland. Ever the resourceful entrepreneur, he soon opened his first business, in 1994.

Understanding the importance of being spiritually covered and active in the community, James united with Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church under the leadership of Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr., and Co-Pastor Susie C. Owens. As an active and engaged member, James was ordained a Deacon and served on the Deacon Board before honoring a call to ministry. As a member of the Ministerial Alliance, he served the seniors ministry and was an active member of the evangelism and intercessor prayer teams. James was a man after God's own heart and always gave God an unapologetic praise through a loud boastful Hallelujah or a praise dance. One thing for sure, "no rock would ever cry out in his place."

James leaves to cherish his memory, his children Jasmine and Jonathan. They were literally the center of his universe, and he truly loved doting on them any chance he got in any way he could. Whether it was a recital, play, cheer competition or just an awards program, he was always front and center smiling and cheering them on. He celebrated their accomplishments and made sure they knew they were special, with a bouquet of roses for Jasmine or a special treat for Jonathan. For the three of them, it was the stolen moments that counted the most, walking the dog, playing tennis in the park, or shopping for their favorite goodies at their spot - "Dollar Tree."  He also made sure his children knew the word of God and had an intimate relationship with God, it is that relationship with God that he knew would sustain them through difficult times like this.

In addition to Jasmine and Jonathan, a host of family and friends mourn his passing, chief among them his parents Willie James and Lorraine Pitts, his sister Kim Parker (Dwayne), nieces A'ziyah and K'Liani, nephews Christopher and Dwayne Jr. (Kwanae), co-parent Minister Katitia Batiste Pitts, his special godsisters and godbrothers and a host of beloved souls too numerous to name but remembered with great fondness and appreciation.

James was predeceased by his grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pitts, Ms. Erma Williams (Pierce) and Mr. Benjamin Williams and numerous Aunts and Uncles.