James C. Floyd Jr.

James Cranston Floyd Jr., affectionately known as “Cranny,” was welcomed into the world with great love on September 29, 1949, in Chester, Pennsylvania. He was the only child born to the late James C. Floyd Sr. (“Sonny”) and Odessa Floyd, who cherished and adored him deeply. Surrounded by their unwavering love and devotion, Cranny grew up in a home where family, faith, and compassion were central values—values he carried throughout his life and generously shared with everyone he loved. He made a peaceful transition to his heavenly home on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at his home with his devoted wife Janice by his side. Although he was an only child, Cranny was blessed with a close-knit extended family of cousins who were like siblings to him. He was raised in a strong family of faith and was an active member of St. Luke Christian Community Church, where he worshiped alongside his immediate and extended family. Cranny received his education in the Chester Upland School District and graduated from Chester High School in 1967. Following in the footsteps of his athletic father and uncles, famously known as the “Floyd Boys,” he played Junior Varsity basketball during his high school years. His passion for the game extended beyond school as he also played at the Chester Boys Club under the mentorship of George Carter. Deeply committed to uplifting youth in his community, Cranny returned to the Boys Club each summer to work with and mentor young people, helping shape the lives and futures of many children. Driven by his love for children and education, Cranny attended Cheyney University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education on 12/17/1972. After graduating, he began a career that reflected his passion for service and helping others. He worked as a teacher in the School District of Philadelphia at Elverson Middle School and also served in the Chester Upland School District. His professional journey later included employment with Kimberly-Clark (formerly Scott Paper Company). Ultimately, he returned to his true passion of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities, concluding his career at Elwyn, where his compassion and dedication continued to impact many lives. In October 1970, Cranny proudly became Stefanie’s Godfather, a role he cherished deeply. From the time she came home from the hospital, he was a constant presence—visiting often or calling to check on his “little godbaby.” Their special bond remained strong throughout her life, and he continued to love, guide, and support her well into adulthood. In August 2007 at his cousin Carlton’s 50th birthday celebration, he met Janice, the woman who would capture his heart. After three years of courtship, they were married on September 3, 2011, at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, surrounded by family and friends. With his generous heart, Cranny lovingly embraced his extended family, proudly serving as a husband, stepfather, brother-in-love, uncle, and grandfather, bringing two families together as one. Cranny was known for his warm spirit and joyful presence. He was kind, cheerful, generous, and welcoming to all who crossed his path. Rarely seen without a smile, he carried an infectious laugh and a heart full of love. He never spoke ill of anyone and radiated positivity wherever he went. Even as his health began to decline, his joyful spirit remained unshaken. He continued to smile, laugh, and sing, often bursting into song with heartfelt declarations of “Love my wife” and “Love my God baby” He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved Wife, Janice; Goddaughter, Stefanie Y. Thompson, Stepson Malcolm Lockley; Grandchildren Ginea Lockley Pagan and Zyaire Lockley; Great-Granddaughters Gionna Pagan and Marleigh Bates; Special Cousins Allicia Perkins, Dr. Lorraine Brown-Long, Gordon Hayes, Shelley Fryer and Karen Parson; Goddaughter’s children Mark Thompson and Sierra Walker; Sisters-in-love Sheryl Johnson, Cynthia McNeil, Ruteena Blake, Brenda Sharpe, and Glenda McIntyre; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins from the Floyd, Thompson, McNeil and Gordy families. He was preceded in death by his parents, James C. Floyd Sr. and Odessa Floyd, and his Brothers-in-love Theron McNeil, Laverne McNeil (Abdul Muhammad). Cranny’s life was a testament to love, faith, family, and service. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

James C. Floyd Jr.

September 29, 1949 - February 8, 2026