James Schirra Abrams

James S. Abrams Passed away suddenly on November 12, 2022 at his home in Kalamazoo, Michigan. James, also known as “Compton”, a nickname given to him by his brother-in-law Kenny Sr. (AKA “Watts” -- who was from California, and has preceded “Compton” in death) because of James’ love for the legendary rap group and social activists N.W.A. James was born in the small idyllic town of South Haven, Michigan on October 26, 1962, son of Larry and Willa Mae (Palmer) Abrams. Larry and Willa raised James and his three siblings as Catholic, often attending Mass, and James was an altar boy when he was younger. As James grew up, he developed a love for basketball and was recognized many times throughout his high school years in the local newspaper for his accomplishments in the sport. James left his hometown shortly after graduating high school and moved to Texas, where he met the mother of his two daughters. 21 years after his oldest daughter was born, James was blessed with his youngest child, Montey, the son he had always wanted. Throughout his life, James held positions in construction and was a member of the Local Laborers Union for many years. He eventually developed a passion for caring for others, earning a Medical Assistant certification, and went on to spend five years prior to his retirement as aNurse’s Aid. James had many hobbies. He loved animals, especially horses & dogs; golfing, motorcycles, poetry and music. James was preceded in death by his wife Genny, his long-time friend and daughter’s mother, Lana Speyrer, his sister Edwina Abrams, Father Larry Abrams, Grandfather Ted, and Grandmother Odessa. James is survived by his mother, Willa Mae Abrams, children, Dominique Abrams, Jessica Abrams (James Blair Golden Sr.) & Montey Gibson. 2 grandchildren, James Blair Jr. & Noa Abrams,brother Kenya Abrams, and sister Cynthia Abrams, nieces Odessa, Kenyale, Karlise and Destiny; nephews, Cornelius, Ralph Jr., Kenny Jr., Semaj, Kenya Jr. and Abel, his Auntie with whom he was close in age, Tracy, and his cousins, who were more like his nephew and niece, Antwuan and Kadeisha. James was loved tremendously by all of his friends and family, who will miss his infectious smile, charisma and daring sense of humor. His legacy to always be yourself and that it is OK to be different, will live on forever through his siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 10, 2022 at 1 pm at the funeral home.