James Richard Flournoy was born on December 26th, 1942 to Woodrow and Leslie Mae Flournoy, in Birmingham, Alabama. After a lengthy illness, James departed this life on Friday May 9, 2014 at 10:58 a.m. at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans in Grand Rapids, Michigan. James was the second son and fourth oldest of eight children. He was preceded in death by both parents, one brother Jeffrey, and two sisters Mary and Charlene. James accepted Christ in his life at an early age. The Flournoy family moved to Chicago Illinois, in 1945 where they resided in a South Chicago neighborhood of the City. James attended James Thorpe Elementary and later attended Chicago Vocational High School. He was well-liked and known for his wit, charm, intellect, and keen ability to stand his ground. In fact, around the neighborhood he was known as an invincible warrior but, around family and friends he was affectionately known as "Sugar Man." James joined the Army in 1969, and served a tour of duty in Vietnam. He served honorably and was discharged in 1972. He developed an affinity for outdoor activities and loved Fishing, Hunting, Boating, Archery and Golf. He also enjoyed discussing politics and current events. He loved to engage in epic battles in the game of Chess with family and friends. James met and was United in Holy Matrimony to his wife Rudeine on March 27, 1993. That union lasted for 21 years until his death on May 9, 2014. Together they enjoyed country living and worked to make their dreams come to fruition. James fought the battle with Cancer for approximately 10 years. He carried himself with dignity and honor throughout the entire time and in turn was shown respect, dignity, and compassion from all who came into contact with him during his lengthy illness. He is survived by his Loving wife Rudeine, sons Keith (Dedra), and Marcus (Jennifer), daughters Alaini (David), and Arinian. Helen Gray mother of his three children from a previous marriage; brother Roy (Jean), sisters, Carol (Ken), Berlinda, and Rowan, his grandsons David Jr., Kenneth, Alex, Jared, Isaiah, and Emery.; grandaughters Abbierre, Daryn, Jalysa, Kendall, Enjae, JaDore, and Envi. We are left to mourn and cherish his memory. James Richard you will be truly missed by All..... Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 19, 2014 with visitation from 10:00 a.m. till service time at Chappell Funeral Home 637 W. Main St. Fennville, MI. Burial will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery Augusta, Michigan. An online registry book is available at www.chappellfuneralhome.com