In the early morning hours of October 30, 2008 James Washington quietly went home to be with the Lord at the Forest Glen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Silver Spring, Maryland.

James was born January 5, 1926 in Grayton, Maryland to the late Reverend Joseph and the late Lessie Washington.

At an early age he was baptized and joined the Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend George Carter. James studied and was ordained as a Deacon in the year of 1967. He was active with the Potomac River Baptist Association, taught the adult Sunday school class, attended prayer and praise service and worked with the Missionary Ministry. Until his health began to fail he was a faithful church member and attended Bible class where he was taught by his Pastor, Reverend Dr. Lowell H. Hancock.

He was proud of his employment with the Charles County Board of Education, La Plata, Maryland. There he worked as a Custodian for Lackey High School until his retirement. Having a conversation for everyone he met, James was known for his "gift of gab". He was also known as the neighborhood small appliance, television, CB and radio repairman. Working in his garden, relaxing and studying his Bible were other past times he enjoyed. For many of his family members James would often ask and answer questions about the scriptures. During the winter months it was not unusual for you to find James laid back on the sofa next to his hot wood stove enjoying his pipe and a cup of tea or coffee.

In 2004, James moved to Forest Glen Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Silver Spring, Maryland. After an adjustment period he settled in and made himself completely at home. He became well known and loved by everyone and even went so far as to have a surrogate son named "Reggie". James did not want for anything and everyone quickly learned to respect "Mr. Washington".

In addition to his parents James was preceded in death by his siblings William Washington, Lorraine Tibbs and Lillian Keeling.

He leaves to cherish his memories a host of nieces, nephews, brother-in-law, Stanley Keeling and many other family members and friends.

His Viewing will be on Wednesday, November 5, 2008, 9:00 am until time of Service, 11:00 am at the Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 11220 Holly Springs Road, Nanjemoy, Maryland. Interment, Church Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Thornton Funeral Home, P.A. Indian Head, Maryland.