Carla Tevara James, 41, unexpectedly transitioned to her heavenly home on December 27, 2021, at Riverside Hospital in Newport News, Virginia. She was born on August 6, 1980, in Hampton, Virginia to Carl L. and Nina O. James.

Carla graduated from Hampton High School in 1998. After high school, she attended Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting in 2002. She was employed by Wells Fargo and Company in Richmond, Virginia.

Living a spiritual life was important to Carla and she truly loved the Lord, attending church services, and listening to gospel music. She was a kind and giving person, who enjoyed helping others, traveling with friends, shopping, and watching broadcasts of sporting events. Carla was a personable young lady and many of her friends affectionately referred to her as "Sassi". She was a member of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Henrico Ch. 78, Order of the Eastern Star, Richmond, Virginia, Hilaal Court No. 218, AEAONMS, Petersburg, Virginia and the Richmond Assembly No. 22, Order of the Golden Circle, Richmond, Virginia.

Most important to Carla was her family and the special bond she shared with her sister, Felicia. She especially loved the family vacations to Ocean City, Maryland as well as birthday and holiday celebrations. Her specialty was ensuring that all family members enjoyed those occasions in the way she intended.

Left to cherish Carla's memory are: her loving parents, Carl L. James, Ed.D. and Nina O. James of Hampton, Virginia; beloved sister, Felicia Draper (Michael) of Laurel, Maryland; adoring niece and nephew, Micah and Michael Draper, Jr. of Laurel Maryland and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Carla was deeply loved by her family and friends and will be dearly missed.

Due to Covid-19 precautions, a celebration of Carla's life will be held during a graveside service at Parklawn Memorial Park, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Virginia on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at 12:00 noon. Masks are required.

Memorial donations on behalf of Carla T. James can be made to the Sheltering Arms Foundation, P. O. Box 91758, Richmond, Virginia 23291-1758.

O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.