Reverend James Edward Battle was born on December 5, 1936 to the late Edmond Battle and Maggie Adam Battle in Huntsville, Alabama. He gave his life to Christ at and early age and accepted his call to the ministry at the age of 19. He united with Owens Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in the early 1950’s, where he served faithfully for several years.
James decided to leave the south and ago north, moving to Cleveland, Ohio in 1957, after being offered a better job, working for the Chrysler Corporation. He later became employed by the county government and worked for Congressman Louis Stokes, 21st District Caucus. James’ last employment was with the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections and was employed there for over thirty years, until he retired. James also served his country in the United States Navy.
While in Cleveland, Reverend Battle became very active in his work for Christ and was elected Pastor of Daysprings Baptist Church in 1983 and served as pastor for twenty-four years, until his death. He was very active in the National Baptist Convention, the National Baptist Sunday School Congress, Bethlehem District Baptist Association, and the Ministry Conference of Cleveland, Ohio. He was a member of the EL HASH Shrine Temple II.
As the years went by James’ health began to fail but he continued his work for Christ and often visited his family in Huntsville. God decided to call James home on November 21, 2007 while he was visiting his sister Earline at her home in Huntsville. He simply slipped away peacefully and gracefully.
He leaves to cherish his memory one son, Delta Rickett of Greenville, South Carolina; two daughters: Denita Walters of Huntsville, Alabama and Ella Campbell of Canton, Oho; four brothers: Ben Battle (Maria), Edmon Battle (Vera), and Walter Harris (Ruth), all residing in Huntsville, Alabama, and Abraham Battle of Cleveland, Ohio; two sisters: Earline Dockery of Huntsville, Alabama and Willie Mae Smith (Wesley) of Chicago, Illinois; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
His extended family of Cleveland, Ohio: A very special and dear friends, Ms. Doris Hamilton, Cathy Hamilton, Veola Hawkins, Talya McNickles, Hamilton Barham and finally, his beloved church family at Daysprings Baptist Church.
Funeral services for Reverend James E. "Bone Head" Battle of Cleveland, OH formerly of Huntsville will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 28, 2007 from the Owens Chapel M. B. Church with Bishop Jerry Townsend officiating. Interment will be in Meadowlawn Garden of Peace. The remains of Rev. Battle will be in the church one hour prior to funeral time.