A beloved and devoted partner, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, SGM James Claud Latimer, 87, of Midway, GA, transitioned peacefully to the Lord on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at&Landmark Hospital of Savannah, Georgia with his family by his side.

Affectionately known to close family and friends as "J.C.," he began his life on February 12, 1937, in Anderson, South Carolina, the second child of seven children born to the late John Lewis Latimer & Alverta Mattison Latimer.

At the age of six, a class assembly was held to honor the black WWII veterans who had returned home. Two of his uncles, dressed in their full military uniforms, were present. It was at this moment that James, inspired by his uncles' service, declared his future as a soldier. At the age of sixteen, he joined the US military at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, a testament to his early determination and commitment.

He served twenty-nine years in the United States Army, earning his Sergeant Major stripes before retiring with full honors in 1982. His bravery and dedication were recognized with the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Metal, and other medals of honor. He also served twenty years of civil service at Winn Army Community Hospital at Ft. Stewart, GA, further demonstrating his commitment to his country.

While in the military, he was married to the late Evelyn C. Glover, with whom he had four children: Stephen R. (Vanessa) of Ames, IA, Claudia A. (Chanese) of Rocky Mount, NC, the late James Todd, and Carmen M. of Hinesville, GA.

After retirement, he made Hinesville, Georgia (Liberty County), his home until his passing. In service to his community, he was an active and devoted original member of "The Eleven Black Men of Liberty County, Inc.", where he served as treasurer for many years. He also served on the Bradwell Institute and Liberty County High Booster Clubs.

While living in Hinesville, he met the love of his life, Laura M. Smith. For forty-four years, they built and enjoyed a loving relationship which included two additional children: Joy R. Smith of Atlanta, GA, and Jennifer R. Smith of Hinesville, GA.

Also left to honor and cherish his memory are his six grandchildren, Sonya (Michael) Bracone, Ariana Latimer, Alexandria Latimer, Delvin (Sierra) Smith, DéJah Smith, King Latimer; two great-granddaughters, Michaela Bracone, and Maleia Bracone; five great-grandsons, Ezekiel Smith, Malachi Smith, Tyberius Smith, Braeden Latimer, and Jeremiah Latimer-Brown; one sister, Arah Glenn of Anderson, SC; one aunt, Edith Pearl Mattison of Anderson, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He is also preceded in death by his five siblings: Ruth Gambrell, George Latimer, John Henry Latimer, Glenora Winn, and Odis Telley.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to The Eleven Black Men
of Liberty County, Inc. at P.O. Box 96, Hinesville, GA 31313 or
through Cash App $Elevenblackmen in honor of SMG James Claud
Latimer.