Mr. James Edward Porter

Mr. James Edward Porter passed away on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the age of 78. He was born on December 26, 1947, in Eudora, Arkansas, to the late Odell Porter and Joseph Woods. He was a proud 1965 graduate of Eastside High School in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where he built the foundation for a life marked by perseverance, determination, and hard work. From 1968 to 1970 James honorably served his country in the United States Army and in 1970, where he earned several medals for his service. James relocated to Saginaw, Michigan, in search of greater opportunities. James was a hardworking and dedicated man who built a distinguished career with General Motors, where he faithfully served for 45 years before retiring. His strong work ethic, integrity, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to providing for his family were qualities that defined his life and earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughters, Angela (Troy) Friday and Ericka (Benjamin) Lockett. He was a devoted grandfather to Quan Studs, Daylon (Donicia) Lockett, Ashley (Peter) Poteet, and Aijalon Lockett. He was also blessed to be the proud great-grandfather of Miles Poteet, Destiny Lockett, and Daya Lockett, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride. James is also survived by his sisters, Rochelle Arthur and Karen Arthur; his sisters-in-law, Cora Webb, Helen (Tom) Smith, Mary (Arthur) Edwards, and Lyttia Arthur; his brothers-in-law, James (Berdetta) Brown and Robert Brown; his special nieces, Janelle Reed and Amber Archibald, who always made it a point to stop by and check on him; his longtime friend, Mike Beeman; and his beloved puppy, London, who brought him comfort, companionship, and joy. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Porter; his son, Gabel Harris; his parents, Odell Porter and Joseph Woods; his sisters, Jewell Lane and Earline Reed; and his brothers, Lee Arthur and Robert Arthur. James will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering dedication to his family, and the wisdom and kindness he shared with those around him. His legacy of love, hard work, and perseverance will continue to live on through the generations he leaves behind. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Dominador V. Laynes III, MD, Covenant Hospice, especially Emily, Nicole, Marie and Amber and Elara Caring for the compassionate care and support they provided to our loved one during his final days. "Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near." Family Hour will take place at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral service commencing at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026 at Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 N. Jefferson Ave., Saginaw, MI 48607. Dr. Willie F. Casey, will officiate wit interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3210 S. Washington, Saginaw, MI 48601. Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Mr. James Edward Porter

December 26, 1947 - June 19, 2026