James Choice

James Edward Choice was born January 3, 1933 in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the parents of Nathaniel and Beatrice Choice. He was the oldest of two children. He and his sister Selmon also known as Selma were raised with high moral and family values, James was baptized at an early age at Tenth Memorial Baptist Church under Reverend Dickson..

James affectionately known by his last name Choice was a well rounded student who graduated from Northeast High School. He excelled in all sports but his first love was football. James was an avid sports fan who loved watching his favorite football team which was the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was trained in the culinary field. James also enjoyed Arts and Crafts, listening to Jazz and playing pool in his spare time. Choice initially became an active member with Canaan Baptist Church under Reverend Dr. Gus Roman, and he continued under Reverend Dr. Brennan where he served on the Men's chorus Choir and volunteered to serve as a Cook during the summer months..

Choice began his professional journey in 1954, he landed a federal position with the United States Post Office, where he proudly served as a public servant for 15 years. In 1967, James met his spouse, Carolyn R. Choice. This bond became stronger once James met her four sons: James, Dennis, Robert and Anthony, Choice accepted them immediately as his own. James not only served as a strong father figure; but he helped guide and encourage them to each become successful in their own career endeavors.  James and Carolyn also known as the Chief remained together for over 30 years until her passing.

In retrospect, James and Carolyn were a strong union, former co-workers, traveling companions, who enjoyed each others company especially at the numerous Masonic social events they attended together since James served as a loyal financial member of Masonic Lodge # 11 located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for 52 years where he unselfishly served with many of his brothers during his membership under the leadership of several Worshipful Masters. James was a proud member of his Lodge where he most recently received his 50 year pin as well as his Certificate of dedicated Service. James was well respected and always appreciated his active role and his lifetime commitment as a humble member of this profound brotherhood.

James had an array of other jobs which ranged from Catering to owning & operating his first business, Jimmy's Variety Store in 1971. Four years later, James wanted to expand by obtaining a larger Market. He then purchased another property. James accepted another position in 1982 with the Philadelphia School District, where he served until 2011 when he retired after 29 years of dedicated service.
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During the past five years, the family faced significant challenges one after another. However, James was blessed to have a loving and caring sister, Selma who graciously assumed the role as the Matriarch of the family. Selma ensured that family needs were met. James was never worried if family matters were going to be handled due to the unconditional love that his sister Selma displayed daily. Although their mother Beatrice raised both of them along with their cousins: Marge, Freddie, Stanley and Alfred as brothers and sisters, all of their matters were addressed whenever needed. Thus, when James' condition became more serious, he decided to reside in Stapley up until the lord called him home on December 16, 2019.

James is survived by his sister Selmon, his three step sons: Dennis, Robert and Anthony. His two Daughters In-law: Wanda and Beverly, his cousins: Reverend Benjamin Haley Jr, Diane, Barbara, Deneen, Derrick and Darryl and a host of other cousins. As well as his Canaan Church family, his Masonic Brothers, and a host of other relatives and friends.