James Anthony

James “BeBe”  Anthony, 60, departed this life on Friday, March 20, 2026. Our Heavenly Father, who is perfect in all His ways, called him home to rest from his labor.

Affectionately known as “BeBe,” he was born on July 5, 1965, in Sumter County, South Carolina, the beloved son of Mary Anthony Lewis (John Lewis) and James “Bubba” Webb (Bernard Webb).

James graduated from Mayewood High School and began his career as a head cook at Shoney’s Restaurant in Sumter. He later transferred to Shoney’s in Fort Lauderdale, Florida where he continued in the same role. He also worked at the Asher Institute of Hampton as a maintenance worker and later at the Naval Shipyard in Newport News, Virginia.

Those who knew BeBe loved him for his kind heart and loving spirit. He would give the shirt off his back and never hesitated to help anyone in need. He loved his family deeply and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Though saddened by his passing, his loved ones are comforted by cherished memories. He leaves to mourn his sons, Jamie Richardson and Hakeem Drayton, both of Sumter, SC; Raheem Drayton (China) of Kennesaw, GA; and James Anthony of Margate, FL, and Janice Anthony of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

His stepchildren, Stefan Bowens, Phillips Sparks Jr., Christopher Sparks, and Glenn Pollack III, all of Fort Lauderdale, FL

His siblings, Dr. Valerie Webb-David of New Jersey; Mary Webb, Mike Anthony (Adell), Shawn Lewis, Johnetta Lewis, all of Sumter, SC, John Lewis (Deanna), Mildred Lewis both of Atlanta, GA, Dawn Brown (Joseph), Tracey Webb (Johnney), and Stacey Webb, all of Sumter, SC.

His step-siblings, Willamae Washington (Eric) of Richmond, VA, Evalena Pearson of Toms River, NJ, and Vivian Pearson of Sumter, SC.

A special friend, Kimberly Vinson of Newport News, VA; an adopted son, Keri Henry of Virginia, several grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, other loving relatives, and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss him.