James Thomas Puller

James Thomas Puller was born on May 20, 1940, to parents James and Lula Puller in Culpepper, Virginia. He was raised in a family with four brothers and eight sisters. His father instilled in all of them a strong work ethic, consideration of time (being prompt), and your word is your bond. “Jim”, as he was called, was educated in the Culpepper Public School System. At sixteen years old, he drove school buses for the local students. After dropping them off, he later went to class himself. This started his love of driving cars and big trucks on the open highway. Upon graduation, Jim was employed by Reynolds and Reynolds Company, in Richmond, Virginia. Later he relocated to The Bronx in New York, with his brother Arthur. It was there he met Udoria Yvonne and they were united in Holy Matrimony, in 1985. He was employed as a Custodian at PS 192 Jr. High School, in St Albans, New York. During his tenure there, he was introduced to the Vice President of Local Union # 74. James was offered a position as Business Representative and later became Secretary/Treasurer of Union #74. He was also a certified and licensed Master Locksmith. This was truly his passion for many years. Jim was a very active and involved member of the Harlem, New York Branch NAACP. He held a Diamond Life Membership, serving on the Executive Board for thirty-four (34) years, where he worked diligently. He was dedicated and dependable to the organization and his Branch. He received numerous Awards, Plaques, Letters, and Certificates of Recognition/ Commendation for outstanding service. Brother James Puller was also a member of Fidelity Lodge 97 at 454 West 155th Street, New York; The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Harlem, New York for nineteen (19) years, where he served with grace and dignity with his Free Mason Brothers. In 2004, Jim and Yvonne left the big city life and made Florida their new home, settling in the Ocoee/Winter Garden area. Continuing his work of Community Service, Jim registered with the American Red Cross. He was “Mr. Red Cross”, always willing to go wherever he was needed, no matter what or where the disaster was. He loved driving buses and big trucks across the country, including Texas, New Orleans, and Connecticut. This was not just his passion, but it was his Mission, to serve others. Jim’s hobbies included: Cars, cars, cars, and more cars. He loved attending Classic Car Shows, regardless of where they were held, Detroit, Chicago, or Las Vegas. He collected photos of all types of classic cars. Jim’s greatest accomplishment happened in 2017, when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Personal Lord and Savior. He had the assurance of knowing, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. In 2019, Jim’s health began to decline, preventing him from doing the things he loved most. He persevered, never losing hope. He fought the good fight, he finished his course, and he kept the faith. On November 30, 2022, God deemed it timely to call our beloved James, from his earthly labor to his eternal resting place. His departure is a deep and personal loss to his family and friends. He will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him. In addition to his parents, James and Lula Puller, he was preceded in death by his son: James Thomas Puller, Jr.; Siblings: Charlie Puller, William Puller, Annie Mae Morris, Dora Starks, Arthur Puller, Mary Bailey, Norma Jean Campbell, Gertrude Puller, and Carolyn Puller. He leaves to cherish his memories to a devoted and loving wife: Udoria Yvonne Puller; one daughter: Renae Lewis (Leroy Lewis, deceased); two sons: Alvin Puller (Kathy), Deon Puller (Bridgette); one brother: George Puller (Cindy); two sisters: Helen Banks (Sydney) and Katherine Pollard; one brother-in-law; John Campbell; seven grandchildren; seven great-grand- children and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Tributes

James Thomas Puller

May 20, 1940 - November 30, 2022