In Loving Memory of Florine Hazel James

Our beloved sister, Florine Hazel James, daughter of the late Toussaint Sr. and Annie James, was born in Salisbury, Maryland, on September 17, 1958. On April 11, 2025, God peacefully called Florine to her heavenly home, surrounded by her loving, extended family.

After graduating from Wicomico Senior High School, Florine earned her undergraduate degree from Bowie State University, followed by a master's degree from George Washington University. She also proudly participated in an internship program under President William Clinton's administration. Florine dedicated over 30 years of service to the Department of the Navy, concluding her career as a Program Management Analyst.

Florine was a devoted member of Wesley Temple United Methodist Church in Salisbury, Maryland, where Reverend Gary Meekins serves as pastor.

For 47 years, Florine was a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Though small in stature, she lit up every room with her radiant smile, sharp wit, and genuine warmth. Florine had a unique way of making each sorority sister feel seen and valued, cultivating life-long bonds of friendship and sisterhood. She traveled far and wide to attend local, regional, and national sorority events. Known for her punctuality and professionalism, she brought focus and dedication to all things AKA. One of her most treasured roles was serving as Dean of the 1980 initiates of ETA Chapter at Bowie State (currently Bowie State University), mentoring younger members throughout her life.

Florine also had a passion for leisurely travel—from cruises to celebrating her 60th birthday in Barcelona, Spain, with her beloved partner, Walter.

Her generous spirit extended beyond her professional and sorority life. Florine volunteered at soup kitchens, tutored children and adults in writing, and donated to various charitable organizations supporting both youth and adults. She especially cherished working with her goddaughter, Nahlia, on creative and scientific experiments—sometimes spending hours engrossed in discovery and learning.

Florine leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by five siblings: Rosetta (Greg) Pollock of Temple, Texas; Linda (Noah) Waters of Aquasco, Maryland; Gloria James of Newark, Delaware; Doris Wigfall of Hyattsville, Maryland; and Toussaint Jr. (Sandie) of Salisbury, Maryland. She also leaves behind one aunt, Crystal (Warren) Morris of Adelphi, Maryland; three nephews: Andre "Tony"(Shelly) Smith of Austin, Texas; Christian (Olivia) Smith of Temple, Texas; and James Polk III of San Diego, California; along with five great- nieces and nephews: Brendan, Arianna, Savannah, Cassandra, and Travis.

Florine's memory is further honored by her devoted partner, Walter Aldridge of Dayton, Ohio; her goddaughters, Dominique Taylor of Salisbury, Maryland, and Nahlia Baker of Clements, Maryland; and two beloved honorary sisters: Debbie Brittingham of Upper Marlboro, Maryland—who shared an exceptional bond with Florine along with her daughters, Alexis and Ceara—and Sandy Strong of Summerfield, Florida. She was predeceased by her godson, Maurice Dix. Florine also leaves behind a host of extended family, dear friends, and countless others whose lives she touched with her kindness, grace, and unwavering love.

Don't Grieve for Me Don't grieve for me, for now I am free. I took God's hand when I heard Him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I found peace on April 11, at 6:38 p.m. that day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy— A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss— Ah yes, these things, I too, shall miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full; I've savored much— Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief; Don't lengthen it now with grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now—He set me free. He is preparing me to be greeted at the heavenly gate by my loving parents, Mr. Toussaint and Annie James, Sr.

Lovingly Submitted, The Family