James Tedder

Obituary

James Leroy Tedder (Jimmy) was born on September 22, 1951 in Gibson, NC to the late Bernice Tedder and Floyd Bulls. He was the first born from his mother who had a total of 9 children and he was also the first born from his father who had a total of 9 children. He answered the Lord’s call home on July 31, 2025.

James served in the Army as well as worked at Columbia University in Manhattan, NY for over 30 years before retiring. In April 2009, he relocated to Orlando, FL. He could not sit still and rejoined the workforce where he worked for Valencia College and Publix Supermarket. He built a lot of friendships that turned into family. Anywhere James went he would make a friend.

James loved playing the numbers and scratching scratch offs. That was his hobby and his favorite saying was “Scared money makes no money”. He loved going to the casino but most importantly, he loved to spend time with his family. He enjoyed going on family cruises, always making jokes and telling stories. To know him, you immediately fell in love with him. He always had a giving heart and his heart was full of love.

He leaves to cherish two daughters, Jacqueline Santiago, Crystal Creekmur, son-in-law Miguel Santiago, five grandchildren, Miguel Tyrek Santiago, Demetri Santiago, Amir Santiago, Jason Creekmur and his only granddaughter Shammara Santiago. He also is survived by siblings Margaret Adeware, Carolyn Patino, Frankie McNeil, Edna Harold, LaFawn Stevens, Colleen Madrid-Matute, Domonique Wilson and uncle John Henry Alford. He also leaves behind a host of nephews, nieces, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, and friends.