James Anderson Sr

James “SY” Anderson, Sr. was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 30, 1924, to the late Robert and Gaither (Fuller) Anderson. He attended the Philadelphia Public School and joined the Berks Street Baptist Church where he was baptized by Reverend Means. As James grew older he took an interest in boxing, were he honed his skills and developed an impressive 19 win – 5 lost amateur record. James was also active with the youth in his community. He organized and managed a highly successful baseball team named “The Arizona Vikings” and guided this group of youngsters from their pre-teens up to early adulthood, through various age levels of competition. The Vikings annually reached the finals. In 1962 the Vikings won the City Championship of the Fairmount Park League.

James married Louella (Davis) Anderson and from this union two children were born, Laura and James Jr. James also had a distinguished employment history. He retired from the Campbell Soup Company in 1987, after 34 years of continuous service. While he was employed at Campbell Soup he received various awards.

After retirement, James focused mostly on his family. He would visit everyone you could imagine and you would most likely hear him before you would see him by the family whistle. When you heard that whistle you knew he was on your block or approaching your house. James adored his family and would help any and every one out with no questions asked. Grandpop as he was affectionately called by most of the family, was adamant about being an active presence in his family’s life. He could be found at children’s birthday parties, sporting events, barbecues, and other family gatherings. Although he was an unassuming man, his presence was felt mightily and his generosity will be remembered and honored for generations to come. He left a legacy of men taking care of their families and in fact his last words included instructions to his great-grandson to continue taking care of his children. It is impossible to capture the impact that his 93 years has made on countless people, namely, his family. Yet, his generosity, love and commitment to his family will continue to reverberate throughout the generations. He was the last surviving pillar of his family and he will be greatly missed.

James spent the last five years at Saunders House, where he was loved and adored by the staff and he felt the same about them.

James was preceded in death by his three siblings Mary Brown, Burrell Anderson and Henrietta Anderson Young, his granddaughter Monique Matthews and great grandson Keith Davis Anderson, Jr. He leaves to cherish his memory two children, Laura Richardson (Herman) and James I. Anderson, Jr. (Lelia). Seven grandchildren, twenty-one great grandchildren, nineteen great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.