JFR 2023 ST LOUIS: From the Gateway City to the Mile-High Marvel
This past weekend, the James Family descended upon the iconic arches of St. Louis, MO for our much-anticipated return to where it all started. Drawing close to 100 family members from all corners of the country, the event was nothing short of spectacular, especially considering it was our first official gathering since the Houston reunion of 2019. Big props go out to The Lou Crew: Sheila James, Stacie James Grant, Sharon George McKinnis, Teddy James, Theresa George, June Buckner and Delesha George. We know it wasn’t easy but they stepped up and made it happen! Thank you!
St. Louis, with its unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban flair, proved to be the perfect backdrop for our family's jubilant 50+ year celebration. After what felt like an eternity apart due to the pandemic, every hug felt deeper, every laugh resonated louder, and every shared memory sparkled brighter. Whether we were reminiscing at the meet and greet, enjoying local BBQ at the picnic, or simply catching up in the cozy corners of our hotel, the air was thick with love, laughter, and a sense of homecoming. Sunday worship at First Baptist Church was very timely with its message of showing grace to others.
The weekend was not just a chance to celebrate where we come from but also an opportunity to forge new memories and traditions. There were games for kids young and old, dancing for the young-at-heart, and long, cherished conversations for those reminiscing about the good old days. And, of course, there was the unspoken yet ever-present acknowledgment of the strength and resilience it took for us to weather the challenges of the past couple of years.
A family reunion, is not a reunion without people. We were well represented. Leading the “Front Row” at 91 years old was Leon James. He was the eldest attending family member and the last remaining brother of the original five who started the reunion years ago. Leon was in rare form!:-) His contagious smile, laughter and jokes kept everyone on their toes. Saturday night he showed he still “got it”, taking over the dance floor with his old school moves!
“2nd Row” attendees were reflected in Alan Villela, Mark Harris and Felecia Kinney doing their version of carpool karaoke on the way to tour the Arch. All captured on video and posted on social media Young adults were represented by Jasmine Samuels showing her friend Joe the ropes on how the James Family do a reunion.
Last but not least were all the children in attendance. Ages ranged from 6 months to 16. What a pleasant surprise.
As the sun set on our St. Louis rendezvous, we cast our eyes forward to the future. With great excitement, and after beating out Chicago and Atlanta, the clan has chosen our next destination: Denver, CO! Come August 2025, the James family will come together under the vast Colorado skies, amidst the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. If the splendor of our past reunions is any indication, Denver promises to be an extraordinary chapter in our family's ongoing saga.
So, to every James family member, whether you were with us in St. Louis or joining us in spirit, here's to the memories we've made, and the many more that await us in Denver. The Mile-High City won't know what hit it when the Jameses roll into town!
Until then, let's carry the spirit of this reunion with us, cherishing the ties that bind and the love that never wavers. Onward to Denver 2025!
Check out memories link below:
