James Nathaniel Porter

James Nathaniel Porter was the oldest child to the late Lucille (Porter) Johnson and Luther Johnson born on October 15,1943 in Hollywood South Carolina. He passed away at his home after a brief illness on May 23, 2024.

Educated in the Charleston County school system, James was a graduate of Baptist Hill High School in Hollywood South Carolina where he also drove the local school bus for himself and his classmates throughout the 4 years.

James was a known by many nicknames including Peanut, Jim Bob and Porter Man.

In the early 1960’s James relocated to Boston, Ma.where he met his late wife Marie Porter and they raised their daughter Yvonne Porter.

James always had a love for driving which led him to becoming a Bus Operator for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. James impeccable work ethics made him an outstanding employee for which he received numerous awards. He never missed a day, he even walked  to work during the blizzard of ‘78 in 27 inches of snow. He retired after 26 years of service.

James had a true passion for music, as a child he taught himself how to play one of his favorite songs “Blueberry Hill” on the piano and also spent a brief time in a band. He was known for sitting outside in his car or truck listening to Sam Cooke, James Brown or Al Green. His love for music inspired both his sister and granddaughter to learn how to play the piano. James also enjoyed road trips  ;driving led him on many adventures throughout his life. He found joy in exploring new places and experiencing the freedom of the open road.

His spiritual connection was evident through his regular attendance at church services where he found solace and joy. Throughout life he was a member of St. Luke AME Church in Hollywood Sc, Jubilee Christian Church in Boston Ma and Bethel Primitive Baptist Church in Statesboro Ga.

James will be remembered as a family man who touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity. His legacy will continue through the memories he created with family and friends during his journey through life.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Marie Moore Porter who passed away on March 17, 2024, and his late brother, Raymond Johnson who departed on May 20, 2024, in Charleston, SC.

James is survived by his loving daughter Yvonne Porter-Madison of Boston, MA, his devoted granddaughter and caregiver, Asia Madison of Statesboro, GA, devoted special grandson and caregiver, Kenyon Lodge of Statesboro, GA; Three siblings Vera Mintz, Gussie (Betty) Johnson and Roy (Barbara) Johnson all of Charleston South Carolina. Loving cousin Albert Porter of Charleston South Carolina. He is also survived by a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.


A public viewing will be held from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home. The family will receive guests for the family visitation from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Funeral services for Mr. Porter will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 11:30 AM at Bethel Primitive Baptist Church with Elder Gary Wallace, Pastor/Officiating.

Interment will follow at Bulloch Memorial Gardens in Statesboro.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements.