"My prayer is to become closer to God and that my singing will continue to glorify his name and be a blessing to others."
James Bennett Greene was born April 13, 1955 in Mt. Gilead, North Carolina to the late Alice Parker Greene and James Edward Greene. He departed this earthly life on December 3, 2019.
James was educated in the schools of Montgomery county. He enlisted in the United States Army on October 12, 1972. James served for twenty years. During his time in the army, he worked as a heavy vehicle driver and served during the Gulf war. James retired from military service on October 31, 1992 with an honorable discharge. After his retirement, he went to work at Richland School District One.
At an early age, James became a member of Mt. Zion AME Church in Mt. Gilead, North Carolina. He would support many of the local churches using his gift of song and by praising the Lord. After relocating to Columbia, South Carolina with his wife, Patricia Macon Greene, he joined First Northeast Baptist Church. James was a member of the Men's Ministry, Men's Mass Choir and the Anthem Choir. He would also help to prepare meals for the church's outreach ministry. James was also a member of the Combat Veterans Group in Columbia, South Carolina. James also enjoyed fishing and loved to sing.
He leaves to cherish his memories, his devoted wife, Patricia Macon Greene; daughters, Angela Greene, Nicole (Kent) Graham and Jamena Greene; sisters, Joyce Chambers of Albermarle, North Carolina and Deborah Martin of High Point, North Carolina; aunt, Gertrude Lilly of Albermarle, North Carolina; two sister-in-laws; one brother-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.