2 BOCNEWS.com JUNE 2019 Astriking figure, always sharply dressed and impeccably groomed, James Benton Parsons shines in his role as Minister of Music at Leake Memorial Church. At 88 years old, “Bro. Jim” or “ Bro. Bennie” as he is affectionately known manages to lead two choir practices a week and conduct choirs every Sunday service. Music seems to be the fountain of youth for this spirited octogenarian, who bears the name of an illustrious ancestor . His uncle, James Benton Parsons was a United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. He was the first African American to serve as a life tenured federal judge under Article III, (ref:Wikapedia). James is a Denver native, the sec- ond of seven children. His parents purchased the family home soon after moving to Denver. James says he is the only child born in the house and remembers the sense of stability it provided for his family when he saw many others having to move frequently during hard times. James’ parents instilled strong values in all of the chil- dren and encouraged them to develop music skills. His father was a talented musician who excelled at piano and harp. In the 1930’s, fifty cents was a tidy sum, but his parents made the sacrifice to pay fifty- cents per child weekly for piano lessons. James remembers his first piano teacher, Mrs. Craig , who corrected his errors with a firm rap on his fingers. He also has pleasant memories of the Japanese neighbors, who often visited to play duets with his family mem- bers. James began playing piano for the Sunday School at Central Baptist Church when he was 10 years old. His father passed away when James was thirteen years old, but his mother continued to support his music les- sons. She required all of the children to take lessons until they were 12 years old, but James and three broth- ers chose to continue well beyond that requirement. James developed a love for music and a extraordinary talent that has brought joy to others for well over 70 years. A product of the Denver Public Schools system, James attended Mitchell Elementary, Cole Middle and Manual High Schools. After graduat- ing early from Manual, he continued his studies at the University of Denver, majoring in music with a minor in his- tory. He became well-versed in the works of Beethoven, Bach, Chopin and other masters. DU was a great experi- ence for James, but he made the deci- sion to leave to join the U.S. Air Force for personal reasons. He was sensitive to his mother’s struggles to support the younger children and wanted to help. The military allotment assigned to his mother provided much needed financial help. James made the most of his service to his country, earning the rank of staff sergeant at eighteen years old. His education and intelligence land- ed him a job in finance. He was sta- tioned at Ramsgate Air Force Base in England for two years, where he and fellow airmen frequently enjoyed the delicious homemade cookies sent by his mother. In England, James was able to take advantage of new experi- ences. He spent some time learning the radio business by serving as a disc jockey for a local station. Following his Air Force Service, James spent a 30 year career at the U.S. Post Office, notably receiving a plaque for taking only one sick day during his tenure. He also worked in banking for eighteen years with no sick days. He says he is committed to doing whatever job he is assigned and takes pride in fulfilling his commit- ments. This extraordinary work ethic is evident in his twenty year service to Leake Memorial Church. Despite serious heart issues and surgeries, he joyfully returns to his duties after brief absences and maintains a rigorous schedule that would challenge much younger ministers of music. He also blesses his church family weekly with words of wisdom and exhortation dur- ing Sunday Service. James has a huge musical repertoire that includes classical composers, hymns, anthems and both traditional and contemporary gospel. He would be just as comfortable on the concert stage as he is at the church piano. Thankfully, he has chosen to use his talent to uplift and encourage people in God’s house. Still on the Battlefield A Mighty Warrior At 88 By Dr. Carolyn Phillips James Benton Parsons She required all of the children to take lessons until they were 12 years old, but James and three brothers chose to continue well beyond that requirement. James developed a love for music and a extraordinary talent that has brought joy to others for well over 70 years. PROFILE