James Richard Rhyans

Thoughtful and profound, strong-willed and principled, caring and steadfast, James Richard Rhyans possessed a quiet strength—both physical and mental—that carried him through the ups and downs of life. Born September 18, 1931, in Johnson City, TN to Sallie and Pleasant Rhyans, James was one of thirteen children—including his half-sister Winona Rhyans of Ashville, NC.

James was a “country boy.” He and his siblings grew up hunting, fishing, scavenging, and farming. He often spoke about how his mother would meet all the children at the door and make them empty their pockets to ensure that all snakes, lizards, and other outdoor pests were disposed of before entering the house. James also worked in his father’s barber shop, cleaning up after customers and running errands. He regularly credited his upbringing for his strong and consistent work ethic.

When James was twelve years old, his father died at forty-five from an asthma attack. This affected James particularly because he also had asthma and often wondered if he would live past the age of forty-five himself. He was overjoyed on his ninetieth birthday, praising God that he made “twice forty-five!”

Upon graduating from high school, James recognized that he had limited options in Tennessee. Wanting to forge a life that included a steady income to help his mother with raising his younger siblings, in 1950 at the age of 19, James enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was determined to remain in military service until retirement regardless of any obstacle he faced.

James encountered many barriers while in the military, often being one of the first Black men to integrate units to which he was assigned. He endured discrimination, receiving poor duty assignments and was passed over for several promotions. However, through it all, James’ strong will, determination, and mild manner carried him to his retirement. On June 30, 1970, Staff Sergeant James Richard Rhyans ended his military career with an honorable discharge.

In addition to being strong-willed and determined, James was intelligent and adaptable. In his role as a military police officer, he was stationed in various locations, including Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and parts of Siberia. His natural talent for learning languages enabled him to quickly make friends with local residents which improved his experience away from home. He frequently reminisced on his time overseas and the friendships he cultivated.

James was a faithful and principled man. He was raised in a Christian home, actively attending church, and reading his Bible. But it was not until March 4, 1970, after a personal encounter, that James truly gave his life to Christ. As a result of this encounter, James dove head first into his relationship with Christ and began to relentlessly study his Bible. He became involved in a local church, preaching and teaching the Bible. Then, on November 14, 1971, he received his “License to Preach the Gospel” from Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Tucson, AZ.

Following God’s lead James moved from Arizona to Nashville, TN. While working at Riverside Adventist Hospital, he met his soon to be wife of fifty years, Lula Williams. After a brief courtship, they moved to Denver, Colorado and were married three days later on August 1, 1973. From their union, the couple was blessed with two daughters—Janine (whom he lovingly called Ms. Neen) and Jennifer (whom he referred to as Little Tiger).

James and Lula shared a mutual desire to help others. Whether it was family or friends needing a fresh start in a new city, individuals requiring a place to stay to get on their feet, or parents wanting a safe place to leave their children while they worked, James and Lula’s home was always available. It was truly, “The House by the Side of the Road.”

James was a lifelong learner. He completed multiple Technical Education Programs at the Denver based Emily Griffith Opportunity School. He obtained certifications in Alternating Current Circuit Analysis, Direct Current Circuit Analysis, and Auto Mechanics. He worked at Services Unlimited of Aurora, Inc. for several years as an automatic garage door repair man and a service manager. After leaving that company, James worked out of his backyard garage repairing cars. All who entered his garage quickly realized two things: 1) he was not going to give up until their car was running, and 2) he had every tool known to man.

James’ true passion was studying the Bible, giving Bible studies, and preaching God’s word. Over the years he exercised his passion by hosting weekly Bible studies in his home, and preaching/teaching at several churches. On his final job as a receptionist at The Argyle—a senior living community—James held weekly Bible studies for the residents.

James was his happiest spending time with his family. He often exclaimed how blessed he was to be surrounded by his family as he aged. As was his wish, on May 2, 2024, he took his last breath in his own home with his wife and two daughters close by.

Those awaiting Christ’s second coming, when they will be able to see James again, include his wife, Lula Rhyans (Denver, CO); daughters, Janine and Jennifer Rhyans (both of Denver, CO); sister, Amelia Earnest (Temecula, CA); sister-in-laws, Martha Miller (David) (Bridgeport, CT), Rosabud Williams (Long Island, NY), & Wanda Rhyans (Johnson City, TN); extended family, Urietta Gibson (Rockford, IL) & sons—Nugent (Marjay) (Columbia, MD), G.W. (Rockford, IL), & Lionel (Heather) (Rockford, IL); Mary & Jabri Johnson (Denver, CO); Leah & Nicolas Jolly (Denver, CO); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.