James "Sonny" Edward Kenner was born on February 13, 1938, in White Stone, Virginia, to the late Cortelyou Kenner and Eva Wood. He was the youngest child and only son of this union. On November 7, 2025, James peacefully transitioned into the loving hands of God.

James received his early education in the Lancaster County School System, attending A.T. Wright, a one-room schoolhouse in White Stone, Virginia. During his high school years, James was a standout first baseman on the baseball team, developing a lifelong love for sports that he later shared with his daughter.

Several years after graduating, James moved to Philadelphia, where fate stepped in. One day, he noticed a lovely young woman named Eutha driving down the street in a red Volvo. Through a family friend who attended church with Eutha's aunt, the two were formally introduced. After seven months of courtship, James proposed—and the two began a lifelong partnership built on love and devotion.

While attending Pierce Junior College, James's studies were joyfully interrupted by the birth of his only child, Kelley—a moment that would come to define his deepest sense of purpose and pride. He went on to enjoy a fulfilling 35-year career as a claims adjuster with Harleysville Insurance Company, where he was respected for his professionalism and dedication.

Family was always the heart of James's life. He delighted in family gatherings, offered words of honesty and encouragement, and found immense joy in the achievements of those he loved—especially his daughter, Kelley, whom he spoke of proudly to anyone who would listen. His happiness overflowed when Kelley met and married the love of her life, Ken, in 2003. That joy deepened in 2008 with the birth of his granddaughter, Lauren.

Eleven years ago, James and Eutha relocated from Philadelphia to Winston-Salem to be closer to Lauren and to take part in her daily life. He treasured the simple routines, especially picking Lauren up from school—those car rides filled with shared music from Luther Vandross to James Cleveland, and everything in between.

James will long be remembered for his famous from-scratch pound cake with caramel frosting, his distinct walk, and his impeccable sense of style.

Above all, James was a man of deep faith. He believed firmly in tithing and often said, "Give God His portion—that's the least we can do." A humble man from rural Virginia, James touched countless lives with his steady presence, honest words, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed, yet we take comfort knowing that we will see him again one day.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Cortelyou and Eva Kenner; and his sisters, Ilamay Wright and Louise Todd.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 57 years, Eutha Davis Kenner; beloved daughter, Kelley Eleanor Kenner-Patridge (Kenneth); adoring granddaughter, Lauren Eva Patridge; niece, Louise Wright; and a host of cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family and friends who loved him dearly.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, November 14, 2025 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm Saturday, November 15, 2025 at St. Paul United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Pamela Blackstock officiating and Rev. Donald Jenkins eulogist. The family visitation will be held from 1:00pm until 2:00pm on Saturday at the Church. Interment will be held at 1:00pm Sunday, November 16, 2025 at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church Cemetery, White Stone, VA.