James Champion

James Clee Champion, 81, of Bessemer City, passed away Friday, March 30, 2018 at his residence.

James was born September 7, 1936, Lincoln County, NC, son of the late Loy Jessie Champion and Mary Ballard Champion.

He was a member of Beech Avenue Baptist Church, Gastonia. He retired from Burlington Industries after 38 years of service, he also retired from Ray Comm Sports after 15 years of service.

Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of over 60 years, Hazel Westmoreland Champion; daughters, Melody Champion and Mary Rosita Champion; sisters Brenda Barnes, Jessie Boulware and Mary Wooten; grandchildren, Michael Johnson, Randy Todd, Westley Shirley, Billie Ann Shirley, Brandy Dockery, Charlie Dockery; great-grandchildren, Mikey Johnson, Travis Johnson, Collin Williams, Jameson Miranda, Carvella Hall, Devine Mangrum.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter Elaine Champion; sisters Elizabeth Hooks and Margie Lingerfelt.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at Greene Funeral Service, West Chapel, 216 Archie Whitesides Rd, Gastonia, NC.  Officiated by Pastor Luther Carver, Pastor Jeff Cook and Pastor Lamar Boulware.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City.

Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Charlotte Region, PO Box 47048, Charlotte, NC, 28247.

Arrangements are with the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, Gastonia.