James Shavers

James W. (J.W.) Shavers made his final journey in life, choosing heaven instead. J.W. was born child number six of eleven on March 28th, 1955. He joined the Air Force in February 1977 and met his ever devoted wife, JoAnn, while they were stationed in Guam. They were married on August 27th, 1981 and were blessed with four wonderful children: James aÌ‚â‚Å“Dougâ₝, Robert, Matthew, and Felicia; and one grand child, Makayla.
J.W. is preceded in death by his parents, George and Alberta Shavers. The greatest legacy they left their children was to: first, love the Lord; and second, love and provide for your family. Like J.W., his 10 surviving siblings are shining examples of this legacy. They include: Charles (Barbara) Shavers; James (Roslynd) Shavers; George (Louise) Shavers, Jr.; Odell (Betty) Shavers; Richard (Pearl) Shavers; Clarence (Mae Pearl) Shavers; Irma (Dr. Alfred) Johnson; twin sisters aÌ‚â‚"" Linda (Hubert) Hudson and Brenda (Timothy) Travis; and Mary (Dorneal) Boyd. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and co-workers who truly loved and admired him.
J.W. was diagnosed with cancer in October 2005, less than 2 months after Katrina hit. Cancer became his personal storm, and he fought it using his faith in God and unending love for his family as his weapons. As an Electrician at Memorial Hospital of Gulfport, he went to work even when the first hour, let alone the following seven were unbearable. He was unable to work beginning February 2007 when the cancer spread. Everyone in the hospital who knew him or were involved in his treatment admired him so much. This wonderful staff donated countless leave hours so he could remain gainfully employed. To them, we say thank you!
J.W. began his care under the wonderful leadership of Paulette Foster-Galbraith through Southern Care Hospice on Sunday, July 29th. He was treated with dignity and respect by them and was surrounded by his family when he made his final journey to be with the Lord. We will all miss him and want to express to every cancer patient that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 7, 2007 from 6-8pm at THE RIEMANN FAMILY'S Riemann Funeral Home, Highway 49 North Chapel in Gulfport.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 8, 2007 at 12:30 pm at the Cedar Lake Christian Assembly, 1155 Cedar Lake Road, Biloxi, MS 39532. Burial will follow at the Biloxi National Cemetery.
An online guestbook may be viewed and signed at
www.riemannfamily.com. For more information, please call (228)832-6854.