James Earl Folsom

James Earl Folsom, age 74, passed away on March 13, 2026. He was born on September 5, 1951 in New Albany, MS to Billie Ruth and John Lenson Folsom. Early on in his childhood, James’ family relocated to Indianapolis, IN where they briefly rented half of a double from his Uncle J.C. and Aunt Mary before moving into their permanent home on Tallman Avenue where he met lifelong neighbors and friends. 

While jokingly described as “a wild child,” James was friendly, and met no strangers.  As a child, he accepted Christ and was baptized at New Hope Missionary Church. He played a variety of sports and participated in the Boy Scouts. He attended School #38 from K-8, and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in 1970. That same year, he entered the United States Air Force and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1973.  Having worked at Arrow Gear, Caterpillar, American Can Co., as well as the VA Hospital, James found his passion in manufacturing jobs. He established a living in Aurora, IL until returning to Indianapolis in 2000. Upon his return to Indy, James was mentored for several years by the late Reverend Charles Tripp to continue his walk with Christ.

James had many loves in life. As a young man, he followed his father’s passion, started riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, and immediately fell in love.  His other loves included music, entertainment, and food.  While he loved rock n roll, James appreciated all kinds of music, enjoyed taking in live theater, watching western movies, and absolutely loved eating great food.  When he wasn’t eating good food, he’d talk or reminisce about eating good food. But whether it was his Aurora biker buddies, or his Indy grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins, family was James’ greatest love. Visiting family and playing with the children brought him great joy. 

In early 2026, he moved to Kankakee, IL to be cared for in his final days by his daughter, Christina Harris.

Left here to cherish James’ memory are his children: Jamaal (Felicia) Folsom, Christina Harris, Renee (Antonio) Harris-Harvey, & Haywood Reed (his bonus Son); his seven grandchildren: Amira, Nathaniel, Khadaizha, Mariah, Nierra, KyJaan, and KyLiya; his three great grandchildren: Khayden, Passion, and Kingston; his siblings:  Rose Mary Edwards, and Reginald (Hellen) Folsom & their three children; and finally, many more cousins, family, and friends. 

There to welcome and greet James at heaven’s gate are both his parents, sister Phyllis & her husband Willie, and his nephew Jonathan.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance on Friday, April 10, 2026 for a public viewing and visitation from 1:00 - 2:00 PM., followed by a service of remembrance from 2:00 - 3:15 PM at Sprowl Funeral & Cremation Care, located at 1134 W. 30th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208. 

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