James was a lifelong resident of Perry and a 1985 graduate of Perry High School. He went on to play college football for the Fort Valley State Wildcats during the 1987 and 1988 seasons. He was also a former Golden Glove boxing champion and held multiple runner-up titles in the Tough Man competitions.

J-Mo loved competitive wrestling. He volunteered with the Perry High School wrestling team and coached local kids. He was a community leader and a great community guy. He participated and introduced many Middle Georgia residents to many different sports.

James was a member of the Middle Georgia Tennis Center. As an avid tennis player, he became a tennis coach and led many drills helping fellow players any way he could. He was an avid student of the game analyzing, learning, and always enjoying the sprot of tennis. He was passionate about tennis and made it his mission to encourage and help anyone with a desire to play to be able to participate in this great sport. He enjoyed watching the kids of the Perry community fall in love with the sport of tennis and we honor the legacy he left in the hearts of the Perry Community.