The son of the late Rebecca V. Roberts and the late Walter Fashaw, Sr., was born January 24, 1951, in Boynton Beach, Florida. James enjoyed growing up in Delray Beach with siblings and many friends throughout the neighborhood. He was baptized at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Delray Beach. He attended Palm Beach County Public Schools from elementary through high school. James played football and the tuba in the Carver band. After graduating from high school, James worked and then attended Florida A & M University for a short period. He returned home to Delray Beach to assist his mother and family.

James became involved with his church and joined the G. W. Phillips Choir where he experienced many opportunities to sing solos and accompany his mother with several of the congregations’ favorite songs. As the years progressed, James became a member of the Men’s Choir. After leaving Mt. Olive, James joined New Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Ft. Lauderdale. There he developed warn relationships with everyone he met through life’s journeys. He was a member of the Men’s Choir and the Men of Valor (a men’s fellowship program for members to grow in faith and leadership).

James retired from the Titan America in 2015 as one of their cement mixer drivers. After retirement and returning to Palm Beach County, James joined the staff at Straghn and Sons Funeral Home. James peacefully departed this life on August 15, 2026, after many hospital visits over this past year. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rebecca; beloved stepdaughter, Aja M. Raymond; step grandson, Khiar A. O. Raymond; brother, Tyrone Fashaw; and godchild, Shakyva Stroud.