James Lavern Haynes

James Lavern Haynes was the eldest son born to Abraham Lavern Haynes and Bettie Mae Smiley, in Selma, Alabama on March 28, 1949.

He moved to San Diego, California when he was five years old.  He is a graduate of San Diego High School.  James worked for the City of San Diego for 38 years, mainly as a Heavy Equipment Operator.  

He was a caring husband.   His first marriage to  Doris Williams in January, 1968 gave him two children.  His second marriage to Kaye Henderson on February 27, 1982 gave him three more children. 

Being the father of five children had its challenges, but he made sure that each and everyone one of them knew that they were loved.

A loving grandfather, he is remembered by his grandchildren for his stoic personality and sense of humor (giving most of them funny nicknames).  James loved taking trips to Julian and showed his love to his grandchildren by returning with fresh apple cider, a favorite treat.

James died in his home on Thursday, March 7, 2019.  He is survived by his five children, Sonia Rivera and her husband Javier, Natasha McBride and her husband Kevin, James Haynes, Jr., Arthur Tharpe and Nicole Henderson; four brothers, Carl, Michael, David and Darryl; thirteen grandchildren and a host of other relatives and many friends that will miss him.

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