John Edward James Jr.

John Edward James Jr. was born December 5, 1997 to the union of Dr. Ghana Akua (DeBoise) James Ferguson and John Edward James Sr. He was the second of three children from his mother, and the second of four children from his father.  John dearly loved all his siblings.

John participated in the bells and percussion section of the band, basketball, boy scouts, football, Sunday School, the Sign choir, and track and was eager to connect with new friends along the way. 

John attended Mississippi Valley University in Etta Bena, MS and later Joliet Junior College and he graduated in 2018 in Joliet, IL with his general studies degree and heavy concentration in Criminal Justice.  John was a self-taught avid lyricist, music producer, and rapper who wasted no time sharpening his craft daily.  He unselfishly donated his time to allowing others to learn from him and utilize his musical talents. 

John’s love and admiration for family and passion for people lead him to open his music studio to several family and friends.  John had aspiration of becoming a registered nurse and was set to begin his journey of Registered Nurse in October 2021.  

Known for his quick zealous personality, contagious laugh, dance moves and ability to produce over 25 beats per day John was the one that everyone sought to be around.  His spirit will forever shine, and your heart will always light up with thoughts of him.  On August 16, 2021 John entered into rest leaving his beloved parents, Dr. Ghana Akua Ferguson of Crest Hill, IL, stepfather, Sterling John Ferguson II of Summerville, SC, and father, John Edward James Sr. of St. Louis, MO; cherished siblings, Marquisha (Karlon) Trice of Chicago, IL, Mahari Ferguson of Crest Hill, IL, Cambria Hopkins of St. Louis, MO, Adonis James and Kai James of St. Louis, MO, and two other step-siblings, DeVante Lewis and Alayshia Baker; three nephews, Amari King, Kamar McGruder, Kamad McGruder, once niece, (Cambria; daughter, Savannah Hopkins); grandparents, Betty and Eugene DeBoise Sr., and Ernestine and William Slaughter; along with a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

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