James Erskine Riles Sr.

James Erskine Riles,Sr. age 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep March 19, 2023. He was born September 28,1928 to his mother, Jessie Butler and his father, Freeman Riles Sr. James, the most loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather is preceded in death by his wife Frances Louise Batteau Riles; son, James Riles Jr.; Parents Jessie Butler and Freeman Riles, Sr. one brother William Reuben and sisters Deborah Riles-Christoval and Victoria Mutin. He is survived by sons, Alfred (Kathy) Philadelphia, PA; Troy, Jesse, Los Angeles, CA and Stanley, Las Vegas, NV. Two daughters, Elaine Marsh and Wanda Smith; grandsons, Eddie Marsh, Damien Marsh, Dinal Riles, Shong Riles (Sharon), Jonathan Riles and Kristopher Hayes(Erin); granddaughters Keisha Williams (Tyronne), Natika Burton, Ahshaki Riles, Traci Trice (Shawn), Cortney Riles, and Telisha Elder; sister-in-law, Shirley Hicks; brother, Freeman Riles Jr.; twenty great grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. James met and married the love of his life, the woman who stood by his side for 64 years through thick and thin, Frances Louise Batteau Riles. They went on to have seven children. A devoted husband and father, he tirelessly and faithfully supported his family by working diligently for numerous years to provide his wife and children with the best life possible. James had the personality and natural charisma to make friends no matter the situation. A man of true integrity, he loved the Lord. He was a devout Christian and a member of Morning Star Baptist Church and First Pilgrim Baptist Church, where he served as deacon. He devoted himself to his religion and the people around him. He led the Gethsemane Prison Ministry and taught men who were incarcerated how to read and interpret the bible. A member of Prince Hall Masonic Temple, he served as Worshipful Master of Berry Lodge #2. Through this organization, he gained moral self-improvement, spiritual development and increased brotherhood. He participated in activities that promoted charitable causes. James was a truly great man whose impact will be forever felt by his family, that loved him dearly. His ability to sacrifice, provide support, forgive, and love will be forever engrained in all who knew him. He exemplified everything we hold dear-honesty, integrity, character, intelligence, kindness and love. He will be greatly missed by those around him, especially by his close relatives. Dad you are in our thoughts and prayers. We cannot put into words how much we will miss you but know that you are going to a place much better than here, where you will be treated like the angel you are. Family and friends are welcome to celebrate his life on Saturday April 1, 2023, 10:00AM at First Pilgrim Baptist Church (1228 Arts Street New Orleans, Louisiana) for friends and family to pay their respects. Visitation will begin at 9:00AM. Interment: St. Roch Cemetery #2, 1725 Music Street, New Orleans, LA. Pastor Eugene Mitchell will be officiating this lovely service. Arrangements by D.W.Rhodes Funeral Home. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to share online condolences.