James Edward Deramus

James Edward Deramus was born on April 11, 1941 in Autaugaville, Alabama. He was the oldest child born to Hattie and Joe Deramus. James rededicated his life to Christ. He attended Suda E Butler High School as one of the first black people where you can see his picture hanging up on the wall. He also, attended Ahrens Trade School where he mastered in electrician and mechanical skills. James worked for the Jefferson County Board of Education for many years as the first black mechanic. He also worked for Jellico Chemical Company for over 30 years as a hazardous material truck driver.

On February 15, 1966, he married the late Marilyn Harris Deramus. From this union they had three daughters and James became a father to the late Damon A. Harris. James was a devoted father, son, brother and uncle. He enjoyed spending most of all his time gardening and with his trains. He enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, working puzzles and watching the news. James enjoyed hanging with many of his buddies at the American Legion Post and receiving calls everyday from friends BeBe and Trish.

James was called to eternal rest on May 18, 2024. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hattie and Joe Deramus; son, Damon A. Harris; great-grandson, Kendrick Deramus; and beloved wife, Marilyn Harris Deramus. James leaves to cherish his memory his three loving daughter, Alana D. Franklin of Munfordville, KY, Erica D. Hunter of Louisville, KY, and Laryssa D. Logan (Kenneth) of Louisville, KY. His grandchildren, Tonjanae D. Cetawayo, Helen d. Cetawayo (Jaleel), Kendra Deramus, Talesha Deramus, Tiara Deramus, LeMichael Deramus, Sr. (Knakala), LaKenya Logan, and Jacqueline Jones; his great grandchildren, Isaiah Cetawayo, Angela Deramus, Desiree Bogan, Jalena Cetawayo, Saria Varner, Aveion Herriford, Antwain Bogan, Jalen Cetawayo, LeMichael Deramus, Jr., Lazarus Deramus and Zandria Hinkle. His lovely sisters, LillieD. Banks, Fannie D. Johnson, JoAnn D. Cunningham and Martha D. Sales (Robert) all of Louisville, Ky; along with many nieces and nephews and a host of beloved relatives and numerous friends.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 29th at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions - Southwest Louisville Chapel, (10304 Dixie Hwy). His Funeral Service will be at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, at the funeral home with a private burial at Highland Memory Gardens in Mount Washington, Kentucky.

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James' service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click here to view the service.