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James A. Warren Sr. “Bate” was born June 13, 1945, to the late Estus and Cornell Warren in Franklinton. James was the father of 11 children and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Bate was one of the first black licensed carpenters in Washington Parish, later starting Warren Construction Company in 1965, specializing in building churches and family homes. His sons worked side by side with him. Warren Construction Company was known from Franklinton, all the way to Seattle, Wash.

Bate always encouraged the youth and others to “Have Faith” and everything would work out. Bate loved his grandchildren as well as other children in the community. Whenever you would see him, he would always have a truckload of kids.

He leaves to cherish his memories: five sons, James (Stacey) Warren Jr., Fredrick (Annette) Warren, Jeffrey (Gustavia) Warren, Thomas (Nickey) Bickham, Justin Warren; six daughters, Janice Warren, Paulette (Samuel) Moore, Marsha (Bishop Michael) Briggs, Anita Sopsher, Sherri Warren, Vanesha (Fred) Fortenberry; one step-son, Gerald (Shavonda) Magee; one sister, Mary Fowler; two brothers, Oliver (Juanita) Warren, Sr. and Bernis Warren; 48 grandchildren; 51 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; two god-children, Kimberly (Kenneth) McRay and Dequnn Warren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Estus and Cornell Warren; a brother, Landus Warren; a sister, Margie Warren-Hart; and five grandchildren.

A drive-thru viewing will be held on Friday, June 5, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Crain and Sons Funeral Home in Franklinton.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 6, at 4 p.m. at Bethel Church of Christ Holiness USA, with the Rev. Alvin Partman officiating.

Crain and Sons Funeral Home of Franklinton is in charge of arrangements. Sign the guestbook online at www.crainandsons.com.