James David Maines

James David Maines passed on July 20th, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. He was born on January 4th, 1988 in Centralia, IL. He is the son of Georgette Jelks of Centralia, IL and Willie Jelks Sr. who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister Yvonne Maines, niece Jayde Jelks, partner Cole Ansier, and Godmother Sherylyn Jeffries.

James is survived by his mother, Georgette Jelks (née Maines) of Centralia, IL. Sisters Tiffany Maines of Los Angeles, CA; Mary Maines of Centralia, IL; Angela Jordan (née Jelks) and husband Shamar of St. Peters, MO; and Marissa Jelks of Centralia, IL. Brothers Nathan Maines of Centralia, IL; and Willie Jelks and Dessa Sanders of Centralia, IL. Godbrother Anthony Brooks and Kristi of Centralia, IL. Nieces and nephews Nataya, Samantha, Yvonne, Divine, Yavyair, Aaliyah, Sha’Mary, Marvayus, Aubriana, Myson, Elijah, Aadonus, SirVonté, Aavareus, Jaylynn, & Kira. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of close friends that were his “chosen” family.

James attended Centralia City Schools and graduated from Centralia High School in 2006. During his youth; he participated in chorus, band, color guard, musicals, and plays. He was even excellent in track. He went on to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Columbia College Chicago in 2013. James was very outgoing and almost every job he had involved working with people. He loved working with all backgrounds, cultures, races, ethnicities, ages, genders, sexual orientations, etc.

As a young boy, James was known for his amazing ability to learn things fast. He was riding a bike before he was completely potty trained. The performing arts came natural to him. He could sing, act, dance, choreograph, flip, etc. with little effort. One of his first big accomplishments was performing at the Muny in St. Louis, MO. One of his most rewarding accomplishments was becoming the choreographer for the Centralia High School Color Guard. He got to give back to the community that gave so much to him, and got the opportunity to coach his cousin and two of his nieces. 
He had the biggest most infectious smile and bright personality. He was usually calm, cool, collected; but could set someone straight when necessary. Those close to him usually could tell what he was thinking by the look on his face. He was the life of the party. He made friends everywhere he went. His family was far bigger than his blood family. Some of his hobbies included traveling, performing, and Broadway shows. He was so grateful to get the opportunity to do the traveling he has done. Him and his late partner Cole would frequent New York City and see as many broadway shows as time would allow. He has performed at countless events, funerals, and weddings. He even became licensed to perform weddings and married some of his friends. He was classically trained musically, yet could sing anything. His wonderful smile, personality, heart, and voice will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 6, 2022, at City Hope Church in Centralia with Rev. Ronald Johnson officiating. Friends and relatives are welcome to a visitation time to offer condolences to the family from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at the church. Repass will follow the funeral service at Sprehe Banquet Hall. Memorials may be made in James’ honor to the Family’s Wishes and will be accepted for the family at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of James may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of James Maines with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James David Maines, please visit our floral store.