James Melvin Greene, age 76, passed away on Friday January 9th 2026 in Lancaster, California surrounded by family.

As a child, he had a mischievous and playful side. He enjoyed teasing his sisters; Judy, Joanne and Janice—often pinching them and running off to hide—and spending time with them at the bar where his father worked, where they would share pizza together on the rooftop. He and his sisters also spent time at their grandparents’ home, where his grandmother’s homemade meals, cakes, and cookies offered comfort during a time when food was scarce at home. With his close friend Jerry Gory, he found himself in typical boyhood trouble, stealing pies cooling on windowsills and apples from neighbors’ trees until they were eventually caught and chased off.

James seemed to especially enjoy a period of his life when he lived with his foster mother, Crystal Lind, a time remembered as one of greater stability and contentment.

In 1970, he had his first child, Amy. Shortly after he moved to California where he met who he referred to as the love of his life, Jeanne. Together they had three children: Theresa, Shannon, and Chad.

James was known not only for his short fuse, but also for his good-hearted gestures. He often helped elderly neighbors with their lawns, walked to the store for supplies to make a birthday cake, and showed care in quiet, practical ways. He had striking blue eyes—passed on to all of his children—and was rarely seen without one of his golf hats. Music was almost always playing around him, and he was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan. He enjoyed relaxing, and having a good time, and was known for his playful habit of tapping someone on the shoulder and stepping away as if it hadn’t been him.

James is survived by his ex, Jeanne Vollert; his sister, Joanne Greene; his children, Amy Jo Nelson, Theresa Perez, Shannon Theobald, and Chad Greene; and his stepson, Nick Evans. He is also survived by four grandchildren, seven step-grandchildren, and five step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Judith Greene, Janice Greene Casto, and half sister Patricia Mae O’Connell, as well as his stepdaughter, Jeannie Sue Evans.

May we find him in a tap on the shoulder, a familiar song, or a scent that brings him back to us. His spirit will live on in the roots we plant, the stories we share, and the love that grows on.

The Celebration of James Greene’s life will take place Monday, January 26th 2026 4:00 - 7:00 pm at Valley of Peace 44913 10th Street West Lancaster, CA 93534