John E. ‘Sammy’ James Jr.; 82; of Monessen; died Sunday; Sept. 7; 2008; in Mon Valley Hospital. Born May 22; 1926; in Donora; he was the son of the late John Sr. and Irene (Phillips) James. Sammy served with the United States Army in 1945 and was retired from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel; Monessen plant; with 25 years service. He is survived by three daughters: Karen Duncan; of Donora; Yvonne Wheeler; of Columbus; Ohio; and LoRae Frezzell; of Alexandria; Va.; three sons: Keith (Arlene) James; of Rockford; Ill.; Eric (Terri) James; of Carroll Township; and Damon (Jo) Hooks; of Monessen; one sister: Donna Allen; of Clairton; two brothers: Richard (Wanetta) James; of Donora; and Jerry James; of Rochester; N.Y.; 11 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents; he was preceded in death by his first wife; Ida B. James; and his second wife; Dolores (Gradford) James; and three brothers; William; Donald and Robert James. Family and friends will be received Friday from 6 to 9 p.m.; and Saturday; Sept. 13; from 10 to 11 a.m.; the hour of service in Wayman A.M.E. Church; 318 McKee Way; Monessen; with Elder Jack A. Howell officiating; assisted by Elder Maurice B. Wade Jr. Interment will take place in Belle Vernon Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the BEVERLY C. DRAPER FUNERAL HOME; 608 Sixth St.; Monessen (724- 684-6242).