James Byron Anderson

James Byron Anderson, age 69 years and 9 months, of Louisville, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at his home. He was born to James and Mable L. Anderson on June 10, 1950. He professed a hope in Christ at an early age at the Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. B. J. Lancaster. He was a graduate of Central High School, class of 1968.

After receiving an honorable discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps, James' career path was focused on being a professional musician. He was a founding member of the Louisville Showstoppers Band that was started in the early 1970's. The members consisted of friends and schoolmates. The group was well known locally and played throughout Tennessee, Michigan, Georgia and Las Vegas, Nevada. The group backed several musical celebrity groups and later became known as Jackie Beavers' stage band. James played the bass guitar and was affectionately known as "the Bass Man."

James was employed as a CDL Class B truck driver with the Pfeiffer Sales Co., Inc., for approximately 15 years. He retired from his position in December 2019.

James joined the Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Larry J. Houston and became a committed member of the music ministry. He played the bass guitar and enjoyed accompanying the church choir and male chorus.

He spent his later years united with the Southern Star Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Barry C. Johnson, a long-time friend. James played the bass guitar and was an active member of the church's music ministry.

A man who enjoyed "life," James had hidden interests and talents such as playing tennis, working on cars and a deep love for music – with the ability to play the trumpet, piano and bass guitar by ear.

Last but not least, he loved spending time with his family and especially his youngest daughter, Cardelia, affectionately known as "Baby Dee." He spent countless hours taking her to the park to swim, teaching her how to ride her bike and travelling when time permitted.

James courageously pushed through challenges in life, including his battle with pancreatic and liver cancer. He had faith in God, hope for humanity and enough love inside to nurture an extended family. He couldn't be ours forever and we certainly did not expect for him to leave us so soon.

James was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

He leaves to cherish his memories: four children, James Anthony Johnson, Mary Smith, Byron James Smith and Cardelia Martin; 5 grandchildren; one beloved sister, Cardelia Anderson Allen; one nephew, Kenneth Allen; a loving life partner, Tahwanda Johnson and her children, Ebony and Jacques Johnson and a host of devoted cousins and friends.

Services have been postponed due to the current environment surrounding the coronavirus. This information will be updated once services have been rescheduled. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.

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