James Tarrance Shine, Sr., was born on October 29, 1949, to Lucille Shine in Jacksonville, Florida. James was the younger brother to his sister, Ruby Shine. James grew up in the James E. Scott Homes in Miami, Florida. James attended Holy Redeemer Catholic School where he developed a passion for singing and sports. James went on to graduate from Miami Northwestern Sr. High in 1967. James also met another student, JoAnne Smith at Northwestern, while he was active in the school choir as well as the football team. James enrolled in Miami Dade Community College North Campus in 1968. James married JoAnne in 1969. They were married until 2005 when she lost her battle with cancer.

James’ legacy will live on through his children, Kirk, James, and Jermaine; daughters-in-law, Mary and Kizzy; grandchildren, KeAndre, Kiana, Jermaine, Jamory, and Janory; great-grandchildren, Karmen, Kayla, and Sumerlyn; nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws, friends, and neighbors.