James Richard Green, Sr.

James Richard Green, Sr. died peacefully Sunday, October 8, 2023, in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born June 30, 1932, in Chicago, IL, a son of Elmer and Mayme (Belgram) Green.

Jim left high school early to join the work force. Throughout his life he was a hard worker and held many jobs; steel worker, soldier, plumber, maintenance with the City of Kalamazoo Water Department, and grocery stores to name a few. He passed his strong work ethic on to his children and grandchildren.

Jim joined the US Army in 1949 and completed a couple of tours before being honorably discharged. In 1970 he re-entered the US Army Reserves and served for 22 years before retiring as a Staff Sergeant in 1992.

Jim was a man of strong faith. He had a close relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jim was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Lawton.

Jim enjoyed spending time with his wife and dearest friend, Evelyn, and his children and grandchildren. He also loved to travel and was able to take some wonderful trips with his family.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; sons, James Green, Jr., and Sherman Green; and all five siblings, Marjorie, Marvin, Kenneth, Linda, and Elmira. On October 27, 1979, Jim married the former Evelyn Kridler, who survives. Also surviving are six children, Thomas (Sharon) Green, Brenda Adams, Charles (Debbie) Green, Sheila (Mark) Morris, Phillip (Pauline) Green, and Angelina Anderson; fifteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Services will be held 12:00 Friday afternoon, October 13, 2023, in First Baptist Church of Lawton, 604 E. 3rd Street, Lawton MI 49065. Jim’s family will greet guests at the church beginning at 10:00. Interment services with honors will be held 10:00 Tuesday morning, October 17, 2023, in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to attend should be in the cemetery assembly area by 9:45. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements entrusted to Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 3926 S. 9th St, Kalamazoo MI 49009. To view Jim’s personalized web page, please visit https://www.langelands.com