James Wesley Raleigh, Sr. was born to the late Luther Raleigh, Sr. and Lucille Staples Raleigh, August 11, 1934 in Guilford, NC. He transitioned this life peacefully surrounded by his family on January 26, 2022.

James came into this world through a miraculous birth weighing only 1 lb. 14 oz. His family and friends called him "Rab". In 1953, he graduated from Dudley High School having served as the President and Treasurer of his class. In 1958, he was married to the love of his life, the beautiful Barbara Mae Ingram and they were happily married for 63 and a half years. He was employed as an Electrician for Western Electric in Greensboro, NC and AT&T in Winston-Salem, NC. While employed at AT&T, James saw the need to expand his knowledge in his trade by completing the Electronics Correspondence School in Iowa, finishing with an A+ average. James went on to attend Forsyth Technical Community College. James was a Tri-Skilled Tradesman. At AT&T he was a member of the Telephone Pioneers. He retired from AT&T in 1989.

In 1968, James became the Scout Master for Troop 159. For fifteen years he was known for his interest and concern for the boys in his troop. When the boys had no transportation to and from meetings and to camp, he was always willing to do whatever it took for the boys to have an enjoyable scouting experience. He was always abundantly prepared for camping by carrying his scouting equipment around in the trunk of his car. James and the scouts camped out in many places, such as Pilot Mountain, Woodyside School, Asheboro, Browns Summit, NC and oftentimes the Raleigh's back yard. He was able to take an all-Black troop to the National Jamboree at Philmont, NM. James always made sure that the boys were comfortable and had everything they needed for enjoyable and safe camping experiences. James always spent time teaching and communicating the need for the boys to exhibit good manners, appropriate behavior at all times, good communication, and for them to be the best citizens. Under his leadership the troop won many awards and ribbons for outstanding scouting. James was a kind neighbor. He oftentimes allowed people to borrow his truck for hauling and repairs. He was willing to lend a helping hand doing any type of electrical, plumbing or carpentry work. When he wasn't helping someone, you could find him volunteering at the church.

As a life-long member of Persimmon Grove AME Church, not only did he repair things but also kept the grounds. James served his church many years in outstanding leadership as an Usher, Sexton, Asst. Superintendent, Sunday School Leader, Finance Committee and Cemetery Committee member, and as a Steward and Trustee where he served as Chairman. James and Barbara were the first couple to get married at the current church location.

James enjoyed bowling, playing softball, making brooms as a hobby, and being with family and friends. He was good in the kitchen too. He was known by many for making his famous candies: chocolate fudge nut, white chocolate fudge nut, peanut brittle, and peanut butter candy. He was also known to make a delicious meatloaf.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories: his wife, Barbara Mae Ingram Raleigh, a son, Barry Raleigh, a son, James Raleigh (Tonya), a daughter Traci Miller (Calvin); five grandchildren, Calasia, Triniti, Celeste, Taj and Calvin III; three sisters, Dorothy Jessup, Judy Frances, and Jane Rhodes, many nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

A viewing will be on Saturday, February 5, 2022, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm in the Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel.

A service honoring his life will be held on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at 2:00 pm at Persimmon Grove AME Church located at 403 Dolley Madison Rd., Greensboro, NC 27410. Visitation will begin at 1:30 pm.

Interment will follow at Persimmon Grove Cemetery.

The family request all guest wear a mask and follow all COVID-19 protocols.

Professional services are entrusted to Perry J. Brown Funeral Home.