James L. Gillard, Jr., was born December 3, 1982 in Detroit, Michigan to Martha A. Cummings and James L. Gillard, Sr.

His early years was spent in the city of Detroit surrounded by his fraternal family.

James was dearly loved by his grandmother, Pauline Gillard who adopted him at infancy. With the love of two parents he stayed extremely close to all his family.

James was preceded in death by his mother, Martha A. Cummings.

Left to cherish his memory includes his mother, Pauline Gillard; father, James Gillard, Sr.; brothers: John Cummings, Kelvin Gillard, Semaj Gillard; sisters: Monique Cummings and Pauline Gillard; grandmother, Lena Alford; grandfather, Larry Donald and great-grandmother, Elnora Smiley; other relatives and friends.

From the age of 16 to 28 years old James life was rocky. He did not let his mistakes in judgment overshadow his life. He put forth the effort to get his GED in 2007, certificates of Achievement in Communication; Maintenance and Custodial Technology and Pathogens/Bio Hazards. James also wanted to further his education. He recently enrolled at Wallace Community College to began in the 2016 Spring Semester.

He appreciated everyone in his life and the encouragement they gave him.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4