James William Britt, Jr.

Obituary of James W. Britt, Jr.

A Memorial Mass will be held, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 375 NE Clackamas St, Portland, Oregon, noon, Friday, December 11, 2015, with military honors to follow, Noon, Monday, December 14 ^th at Willamette National Cemetery.  “Britt” passed away at his home in Portland, November 21, 2015 following his battle with cancer; he was 78 years of age.

James William “Big Jim” Britt, Jr. was the eldest of three children born to James W. and Florine E. (Starks) Britt.  Born in Jackson, Tennessee, May 26, 1937, the family moved a short time later to Oregon where he was raised in NE Portland. “Britt” graduated from Washington High School, class of 1954.  Later that year he joined the United States Marine Corps and served for the next three years before, he continued his education receiving a Bachelors Degree from Eastern Montana College.

On February 28, 1969 he married Mary Alice Martin; from this union they raised two children. He worked for the Benson Hotel at the London Grill Restaurant and years later he and his partners open a popular night club “The Upstairs Downstairs” where they showcased local well-liked entertainment. “Britt” also worked at various car dealerships in the sales department.  He retired from TriMet as a driver where he worked from 1987 until 2000.

“Britt” was known for many talents but his cooking and barbecue were on the top of the list. He was always the jokester and the entertainment at many gatherings of family and friends. Britt loved his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren; he would do anything for them, no was never the answer.  He was a sports enthusiast, playing golf, dominos, cribbage, and enjoyed the dog track and horse tracks as well. He made the annual visit to the Kentucky Derby for many years. He will be truly missed by all.

“Britt” is survived by his wife Mary Alice, daughter; Chrystal Booker (Randy), grandchildren; Cierra Booker-Maceo (Jorge) and Austin Booker, Great-grandchildren; Elijah and Esaiah Maceo, siblings; Barbara Newsom & Joe Britt, niece; Miracle Britt, nephew; Lanell Clark and son James III, fiancé Mary Roney. Predeceased by his son James III, grandson; James IV, nieces & nephews; Florinda, Yule and David.