James Henry Wills

James Henry Wills was born on December 1, 1942, in Edenton, North Carolina, to James Frank and Helen Blount Wills. He grew up in Edenton among many uncles, aunts, and cousins. He graduated from Edenton High School in 1959 at age sixteen, and then earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from North Carolina A&T State University in 1963. He began his career in finance at Manufacturers Hanover Trust in New York. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1965 and ascended to the rank of Captain. After his honorable discharge in 1969, he moved to Asheville, NC, where he worked for Wachovia Bank & Trust Company. He met his life-long love Alphia Leahbelle Little in March 1970; they wed June 6, 1971 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. James and Alphia lived in Asheville until 1974, when a new job brought them to Gainesville, GA. In 1977, they built their home in Rainbow Village, and in 1978, they welcomed daughter Jacqueline Nicole. James continued his career in the finance department of SKF (TRW), where he was known as “Jim”, and remained there until his retirement in 2005. The son of an A.M.E. Zion minister, James was always committed to serving the Church. He and Alphia joined St. Paul United Methodist Church in 1974, and he served in many positions, including Finance Committee Chair, Pastor-Parish Relations Committee Chair, Chairman of the Administrative Board, Lay Leader, and Building Committee member during the renovation and expansion of St. Paul in 1988. His desire to be of service extended to the Gainesville community. He was a member of the Jaycees, and subsequently served on the boards of the United Way of Hall County, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Advisory, Chestatee Regional Library (now Hall County Library) and the Hall County Credit Union. He also served on the Athletic Committee and Board of Trustees of Lakeview Academy, where his daughter attended. He was a member of the Gainesville-Hall County Black History Society and a volunteer mentor for youth through Center Point. He also worked for the election campaigns for several local Democratic party leaders. James was a big sports fan—his favorite teams were the Dodgers, Braves, Falcons, and Hawks. He loved watching old westerns and courtroom shows. And he especially loved Saturday morning breakfasts, discussing community affairs with fellow members of the Men’s Progressive Club. After a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, he passed away on June 1, 2022 at the age of 79. He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. James F. Wills, mother, Helen (Blount) Wills, and infant siblings Franklin and Katherine Olivia. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Alphia of 51 years, daughter Jacqueline, and a host of extended family members and friends.

James Henry Wills

December 1, 1942 - June 1, 2022