The Life & Legacy of Elder James Diggs

Elder James Ellis Diggs transitioned to his heavenly home on June 16,2024, in Hampton, Virginia after a long battle with illness. He was born in Newport News, Virginia on August 24, 1932 to the late Joseph and Mary Diggs.  He was raised in Newport News and graduated from Huntington High School.  He served in the United States Army and worked as a Painter in the Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Company, retiring in 1995 after 44 years of service.

James was a long-time resident of Hampton, Virginia.  Throughout his life, he exemplified God's grace and love in every interaction.  Whether walking, golfing or enjoying nature in his yard, he welcomed conversations with anyone who crossed his path, knowing no stranger.  James was known for his sharp dressing and swagger.  He placed his unwavering faith at the center of his life, trusting in God through all challenges.  Elder Diggs was a strong, loving, caring and wise man.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons: Darius Diggs, George Perry and Michael Perry; sisters: Vernell Pinckney, Alice Robertson, Eunice Sowell; and brothers: Reverend Sylvester Kent Diggs, Leon Diggs, Willis Diggs, Robert Diggs, Ronald Diggs, Elder Cleveland Diggs and Joseph Diggs.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving and faithful wife of 42 years, Hattie M. Diggs, his daughters: Donna Butler of Tampa, FL, Deneen Brown (Tony) of McDonough, GA, Lois Graywolf of Hampton, VA and Roma Thurin (Jose Gamez) of Stanton, MI, 19 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren; four sisters: Loretta Lassiter, Beatrice Miles, Deborah Addison all of Newport News, VA and Gladys Walker of Maryland; four sisters-in-law: Doris Diggs and Rosa Solomon of Hampton, VA, Flora Diggs of Connecticut, Victoria Nicholson of Littleton, NC; and brothers-in-law, Emmit Pearson and Willie Pearson (Christine) of Littleton, NC; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Viewing to be held Friday, June 21, 2024 from 3-6pm at O.H. Smith & Son Funeral Home. Celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024, 11am at The United House of Prayer for All People, 626 48th St, Newport News, VA. Interment will follow at the Hampton Memorial Gardens, 155 Butler Farm Road, Hampton, VA.