James Edward Middleton

James Edward Middleton, affectionately known to his family as “Pop” and to almost everyone else as Jim or Uncle Jimmy, passed away on September 25, 2026, at Bella Vita Health and Rehabilitation Center in Glendale, AZ. Born on January 29, 1938, to the late Ethel B. (Kemp) and Robert M. Middleton, Jim lived a life defined by faith, resilience, and an unmatched work ethic. He was preceded in death by all of his siblings: Joan Gazarine Parham, Robert R. Middleton, Annette K. Baker, and Janie M. Middleton. He was a proud graduate of Burgard Vocational High School in Buffalo, New York. Jim honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps, stationed on active duty at Camp Lejeune from September 1955 to September 1959. He carried the fierce pride of the Corps with him throughout his entire life, shouting “Semper Fi” until he could no longer speak.A trailblazer who never shied away from hard work, Jim built a diverse and impressive career. He worked as a foreman and welder for Dresser Industries and later made history at High Grade Food, taking immense pride in becoming the first Black salesman in the country for a major meatpacking house. Even in retirement, Jim’s industrious spirit never rested. Affectionately known around town as "the junk man," he turned scrap metal into a post-retirement job, driving his trusted, beat-up trucks around to pick up aluminum and other metals to sell at the junkyard.

Jim shared a long, meaningful chapter of his life with Elizabeth Middleton, whom he married on April 1, 1966. Together, they gave their lives to Christ in 1981 at Grace Tabernacle Church of God in Christ under the leadership of the late Rev. Houston Williams. A devout Christian, Jim served his church faithfully as a Deacon and Trustee. Whether he was up fixing the church's flat roof, manning the grill for church picnics, or fulfilling his favorite calling of performing baptisms, Jim was a joyful and hands-on pillar of his congregation. His deep spiritual journey also included years of fellowship at Good Samaritan COGIC under Bishop G.H. Young Sr., and membership at True Bethel Baptist Church under Pastor Craig Pridgen.For the last three years of his life, Jim relocated from Buffalo to Arizona to live with his grandson, James Pennington. He spent these final years enjoying life surrounded by dedicated care and love, often proudly proclaiming James to be his “grandson, godson, and namesake.” While in Arizona, Jim was also able to grow his love for horses and fulfilled a lifelong dream of taking his shot at stand-up comedy.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and hard work. Jim is survived by his three children: Janice (Raphael) Jones, Clifford (Jackie) Middleton, and Martin Middleton; as well as his eleven grandchildren. His memory will also be cherished by a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and godchildren, along with his loyal dog, Oreo, whom he loved very much.