James Henry Speight, Jr.

James Henry Speight, Jr. “Jimmy”, joined his wife and family up in Heaven on May 23, 2026.

James was born in Norfolk, Va, but was raised in Va. Beach.  He was educated in the Va. Beach public school system and graduated from Princess Anne High School. James was a jack of all trades and worked many positions throughout his career. He was a Brick Mason Apprentice at Armstrong Masonry; Heavy Equipment Operator, Auto Body Mechanic, Auto Body Paint Technician, Landscaper, and also worked many years with the City of Virginia Beach.

James loved a clean house and cooking his favorite pot of soup or spaghetti brought him great joy. He had a deep appreciation for fresh sneakers, expensive signature colognes, and had a tailored style. He always made sure his hair and face were impeccably groomed by his favorite barber, Garvin.

On March 2, 1999, Jimmy married the love of his life, Deborah D. Hines. The two were inseparable and you did not see one without the other. Together they shared 32 beautiful years until Jimmy lost his wife to cancer. The lost hit him hard and he never fully recovered.

James loved his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He loved playing basketball, telling jokes, and shooting pool with his brother, Chris and cousin, June. Jimmy could also be found playing cards with his sister-in-law, Lisa.

James was predeceased by his beloved wife, Deborah D. Speight; parents, James Sr. & Elaine Speight; two brothers, Oneil Speight, Melvin Speight; his favorite uncle, Cearful Speight; special cousin, Big John; sister-in-law, Sharon; brother-in-law, Kerry; and good friend, Gibbs.

James leaves to cherish his fond memories, his children, Tiffany Lewis, James Speight “Lil Jimmy” (Sofia Jones); grandchildren, Jaylen Whitehead, Ayahri Mitchell, Keandra Lewis, Samorah Lewis, Matthew Lewis, Karter Irons; siblings, Chris Speight (Chonte’), Delois Speight; special nephews, Dominique and Det; aunt, Maxine Cornick; special cousins, June, Snapper, Alvin, Vernon. Sam; sisters-in-law, Lisa, Diane (Floyd), Barbara (Clayton), Annette; brother-in-law, Robert; good friends, Coop, Chump Chump, Shawn James; a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.