Obituary Notice from
Metropolitan Community Churches

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OBITUARY:
James Edward "Papa Jimmi" Irving, MCC Pioneer
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James Edward Irving -- affectionately known as Pops, PaPa, or Papa Jimmi, and an early MCC pioneer who join MCC Los Angles in 1969, one year after MCC's founding -- departed this life on Tuesday, September 12, 2006.

Jimmi was born October 13, 1925 in Birmingham, Alabama to Luretha and James Irving who both preceded him in death. He was raised by his paternal grandmother, an aunt, and a cousin in Chicago, Illinois.

He received his education in Chicago and at the Los Angeles Technical College, earning his license as a vocational nurse. He served his country in the United States Marine Corp and received an honorable discharge in May 1946.

Jimmi accepted Christ as his Savior at seven years of age at Saint Luke’s Baptist Church in Chicago, led by Pastor E. L. Randall and was baptized in the Holy Ghost.  As a teenager, Jimmi became a member of Chicago's First Church of Deliverance, serving under the leadership of the founder, the late Reverend Charles Cobbs. Jimmi also belonged to the popular musical group "The Sharps and Flats,"  under the direction of Professor Maurice E. McGehee.

In 1958, he moved to Los Angeles where he joined Calvary Baptist Church. He served as assistant choir director under the direction of Mr. Dave Weston and was a member and treasurer of the "Dave Weston Singers."

In 1969, he joined the Los Angeles Metropolitan Community Church under the leadership of the founder, Reverend Dr. Troy D. Perry. 

The late Minister of Music, Willie Smith placed him in the position of Assistant Minister of Music of MCCLA in 1972. He served MCCLA under the Pastorates of Reverend Troy Perry, Reverend Lee Carlton, Reverend James Sandmire, Reverend Don Peterson, Reverend Jeri Ann Harvey, and Reverend Nancy Wilson -- and frequently attended, worshipped, and ministered in song during the pastorate of the current senior pastor, Rev. Neil Thomas.

After many years of working for UCLA hospital as a nurse, Jimmi officially retired April 1, 1991.  "Going but not knowing" he moved to Garden Grove, California. It was at this time he found his last Church family, Calvary Open Door Center, founded by Pastor Mark Elias.

Jimmi became a foster grandparent at the Blind Children's Learning Center, caring for numerous children over the last few years. Periodically he worked part-time as an usher at the Arrowhead Pond.

James Edward "Papa Jimmi" Irving will be remembered for faithfully serving the Lord daily and always giving glory to God. Among his great legacies is the profound effect he had on the many lives he touched and the many souls he won for Christ. Jimmi's enthusiasm and love for his "Babies" continued right up until the very end as he led his choir one more time from his hospital bed.

Jimmi departed this life on Tuesday, September 12, 2006. He is survived by his brother, Herman Harris; his nephew Herman Harris, Jr.; sister, Audrey Cupidon; cousin, Vivian Wright; nieces, Nanette and Misha; countless cousins, nieces and nephews, his numerous children he lovingly referred to as his "Babies;" wonderful friends, co-workers; neighbors; and the numerous members of the Clergy that have been a part of his life.

A Memorial Service, led by Reverend Dr. Troy Perry, will take place at Metropolitan Community Church of Los Angeles on Saturday, September 30, 2006 beginning a 3 PM Pacific Time. The church is located at 8714 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, California  90069. Tel. (310) 854-9110. Website: www.mccla.org


 

For Additional Information, Contact:
MCC Communications Department
P. O. Box 691728
West Hollywood, CA  90069
E-Mail: info@MCCchurch.net
Web: www.MCCchurch.org
Fax: (310) 360-8680