PARIS, James Edward – Of Truro, entered this world on July 4, 1938, to celebrate his birthday with our neighbours south of the border. He was the youngest of the family of the late Isaac Burton and Alcora (Clyke) Paris. He was predeceased by his siblings, Osborne, Charles, Thelma, Eleanor, Roy, Ira, Kenneth, Greta and Melvin. As well, he was predeceased by his eldest daughter, Peggy and his youngest son, Charles “Chuckie”. James was blessed with a voice for singing that was recognized and encouraged at an early age by the late Dr. Jane Norman, having him sing at school and in the music festivals. Later, as a young man, he was bit by the Rock 'n Roll bug and he and some friends formed a band, “Jay and the Novatones”. James became known as “Screaming J”. The group performed at local dances, as well as other areas of the province and in Prince Edward Island on Frank's Bandstand. He left Truro and went to Montreal. There he joined another band, “The Vikings”. He also participated in the CKVL New Talent '63 and won first place. While living in Montreal, James married the late Catherine Ann Ridgley. Eventually, he and his family returned to Nova Scotia. In the early 80s, his life and his singing took a new direction and since then and until his illness, he sang for the Lord in the church choir, in a trio, “The Lamb's Men”, with Paul Ferguson and the late Mike Moore and as a tenor soloist. He sang at concerts, Coffee House gatherings and on the Truro radio station, “Down Memory Lane” hosted by the late Nora McNutt. James was called on to sing at weddings, anniversaries and funerals, both locally and throughout the province. His rendition of “O Holy Night” was a favourite of many during the annual Christmas events. He and a friend, the late Wilfred Brenton, made a cassette tape and a CD of James' singing, “O What a Savior” and “Feed My Sheep”. Throughout his life, James worked at various jobs. He spent several years with CNR/VIA Rail as a cook, chef and steward. He also worked as a cook for the NS Youth Training Center and as a civilian cook at CFB Debert. James was a member of Truro Heights United Baptist Church for the past sixteen years where he served as Deacon, Adult Sunday School Teacher, on the Board of Management, Church Choir, and Secretary/Treasurer of the Truro Heights Cemetery. Before going to Truro Heights Baptist, he was actively involved in the African United Baptist Association of Churches, a member of Zion Baptist Church and Choir, Key-man for the Men's Brotherhood and served as Secretary for the AUBA Laymen. James passed away at Colchester Regional Hospital on Tuesday, June 7, 2011, a month short of his 73rd birthday and is now singing in God's Heavenly choir. He leaves to mourn, reflect and reminisce his passing, his wife of 27 years, Arleen (Borden); children/stepchildren, Thelma Dawn Paris (Kevin Robinson), James Isaac Paris, Kimberly Paris (Marlon Lutchmipersad), all of Toronto and area; Evita Desmond, New Glasgow; Elaine Cole (aka Michael Davies-Cole), Halifax; Wayne Warner (Denice), Truro; brothers, Morris “Moe” and Isaac “Neenie”; sister, Wonneta Paris, all of Montreal. As well, there are several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by his church family, Christian brothers and sisters from many other churches and denominations, by his very extended family of relatives and in-laws, and by his special friend and chosen sister, Jean Byers and her husband, Neil, West Bank, British Columbia. James' illness was made so much more bearable by the home support of the Palliative Care Team of Dr. David Henderson and nurse Ann McKim, the many VON members who made daily house calls, the Medical Staff of 3N, Colchester Regional Hospital, Pastor Greg Porter, our church family and numerous friends. Visitation will be held 7-9 p.m., Friday, June 10, 2011, in Truro Heights United Baptist Church, 343 Truro Heights Road, with the second hour being dedicated to a time of reflecting and sharing of memories of James' life. A service of Gospel music to celebrate his passing will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, June 11, 2011, at First Baptist Church, 759 Prince Street, Pastor Greg Porter officiating. Interment in Robie Street Cemetery, 125 Robie Street, Truro. Reception to follow in the lower church hall. If so desired, donations to Truro Heights United Baptist Church Sound System or a charity of choice are welcomed. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the “Guest Book” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com