James Leroy Greenhow, (House) age 79, of La Plata, Maryland.

James was born February 1, 1935 to Carolyn Rosalie and John Lorenzo Greenhow in Washington, D.C. He departed this life on September 10, 2014 at Georgetown University Hospital due to complications from pneumonia. He is predeceased by his mother, father, brother, John (Jackie) Greenhow and sister, Mary Geraldine Cromwell.

Due to the death of his own father at the tender age of 10, James became the head of the household, taking on odd jobs before and after school to help support his mother and siblings. He was selected for the Navy Youth Corp at the age of 16 at what was known as the Naval Surface Weapons Center (NSWC) in Indian Head, Md. He enlisted in the Navy in February 1952, during the Korean Conflict, serving until November 1955 when he received an Honorable Discharge and returned to NSWC. During his career at NSWC he held several positions, with numerous commendations and awards, ultimately retiring as Branch Manager in 1990.

James was united in marriage in June 1957 to Rose Marie Proctor. He was very proud of being married for 57 years. James is survived by wife Rose, his 4 children, Sherrie (Thomas Jones, deceased), Lonnell and Terrence (Karen) Greenhow, and Jerri Anderson. He also leaves to morn his passing, his sisters, Ruth Ann Bluford, Dorothy Plater, Ruth Swann, Collette Gray, sister-in-law, Yvonne Johnson and many nieces, nephews, cousins, a host of family and friends, especially Joseph (Hardy) Proctor and John Travers, a devoted friend since childhood.

He was a devoted family man, with great faith, a strong work ethic, quick wit, warm spirit and a winning smile that would light up any room. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

His special pride and joy were his grandchildren, Levar Greenhow, Jawan Fenwick, Brandon Greenhow, Travis Jones, Tiara Greenhow, twins Taryn and Terrence Greenhow Jr. (TJ), Kristen and Charles Anderson Jr. (CJ) and great-grand Taraj Fenwick.

Besides spending time with family and friends, he enjoyed the Lottery, sports, jazz and dancing with his favorite partner Rose, the Lottery, telling jokes and stories, and did I mention... the LOTTERY. His favorite professional teams were the Washington Nationals and Redskins. Of his fondest sports memories were the years he Coached the Red Legs Little League Team in the late 60s, including the Championship year in which they were undefeated, 17-0. Many of the players still visited him throughout the years, which brought him great joy.

Viewing will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 201 St. Mary's Avenue in La Plata, Md. on Thursday, September 18th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. The funeral service will be held on Friday September 19th with a viewing from 8:00am to 8:30am followed by Mass at 9:00am. Burial will be at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, Maryland at 11:00am. Arrangements provided by Thornton Funeral Home.