James Henry Becton

Obituary

James Henry Becton, affectionately known as “Buzzy” was born on October 22, 1947 to the late Willie Joyce and Johnny Becton Sr. in Memphis Tennessee. In 1952, he and four siblings moved to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania to reside with Lillian and Edward Anderson. He attended and became a member of Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. After graduating from Westinghouse High School, James proudly enlisted into the United States Marine Corp. He fought bravely for our Country serving a tour in the Vietnam War. The quote “Once a Marine Always a Marine” exemplified how James lived his everyday life as he honorably served his country. Staying true to the Marine’s Motto “Semper Fi” meaning always loyal, Buzzy expressed this motto through his courage, veracity, compassion and honor for love of family and friends. “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But the Marines don’t have that problem.”

James retired from Terry’s Fix It Service, however he was gainfully employed by the Pittsburgh Sanitation Department, Carlow College, and Parks and Recreations. In his spare time Buzzy loved to read, one of his daily rituals was to read the Pittsburgh Press/Gazette from cover to cover. Buzzy was a big fan of the “Black and Gold” that represented his favorite football team, the Pittsburgh Steelers. He loved to celebrate with good spirits and music. Oh yeah, the Chilites, “Have you Seen Her?” He loved, the “Oldies but Goodies.” He never missed an opportunity to smell and admire a beautiful flower and its fragrances. Buzzy was not only a soldier but was a gentleman, kind hearted but fierce. Loyal and Trustworthy. Buzzy was a caregiver, who made situations better and who brought about happiness.

He was preceded in death by brothers Nathaniel and Johnny Becton Jr. sisters, Geraldine Terry and Delois White. He leaves to cherish his love and memory Edward L. Becton (Deborah), Freddie Becton, Dorothy Cathcart (Arthur) of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Arthur Danny Becton, of Kansas City, Missouri, Linda Holley of Hyattsville, Maryland, Irene B. Moore, Augustine Becton of Memphis, Tennessee. And a host of loving nieces and nephews who admired him greatly.

“It is courage, courage, courage that raises the blood of life to crimson splendor. Live bravely and present brave front to adversity.”

“I have fought a good fight I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

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