Reynolds Funeral Home announces with deepest sympathy the passing of Mr. James Lee Oliver, 75 of Decatur, AL.  Mr. Oliver passed away peacefully on February 9, 2017 at his residence surrounded by his family.  Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, February 15 2017 at 12:00 Noon, at Reynolds Funeral Home Memorial Chapel, with Bishop Thomas Davis Jr., officiating. Public viewing will be Tuesday, February 14, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

James Lee Oliver was born to the late Emmett and Ermma Oliver on August 16, 1941 in Chicago, IL. He was the youngest of three children.

He was educated through the Chicago Public School System. He received a full scholarship to play basketball in Nashville, Tennessee. He was a faithful employee of the City of Chicago and retired after 36 years of employment.

He confessed hope in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was baptized under the leadership of Pastor Steve Munsey at Family Christian Center in Munster, Indiana.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Catherine Smiley Oliver and to this union three children were born, Lisa Simpson, Cory Oliver and Tera Olive-Yarbrough. He was an awesome and supportive DAD of six children.

He made his transition to be with his Heavenly Father on February 9, 2017, while his family stood with him in unity. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Barbara Goins, and Carol Slaughter; one son-in-law, Reginal Yarbrough.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory: a loving and devoted wife of over 46 years, Catherine Smiley Oliver of Decatur; one sister, Brenda Theibo, Chicago, IL;   six children, Helen Jenkins (Edward), Robyn Oliver, Lisa Simpson (Curtis), Cory Oliver (Cassandra), and Erica Lackey all of Chicago, IL, Tera Yarbrough Decatur, AL;  21 grandchildren;  7 great grandchildren; two goddaughters, Tirra Turner (Joe) and Ayanna Mollison of Chicago, IL; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. A special friend, Joe Mosely of Chicago, IL,