Julia Ann Milton was born December 1, 1925, to Ruffin Aubrey & Anna Bell (Owens) Milton in Newport. She attended school in Newport and graduated from Rogers High School in 1943. She was employed by the State of RI Department of Human Services for 35 years and the United States Government at NUWC for 11 years.

Milton was an active member of Community Baptist Church and was honored for being the director of the youth choir for over 12 years, teaching Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, singing in the Senior, as well as, Mass Choir, and was a member of the Marion J. Brown Visitation Committee. She also was a member of the NAACP and an active member of the Mora E. Hammonds Scholarship Committee.

Milton joined the Queen Esther Chapter #11 Order of the Eastern Star in 1972, was Past Worthy Matron of Queen Esther Chapter #2 and Honorary Past Grand Matron of Prince Hall Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star.

She leaves to celebrate her life and legacy her loving husband of 58 years, Edward C. James, Jr.; three daughters, Cheryl Butler of Providence, Christine James of Middletown, and Susan Williams of Egg Harbor Township, NJ; four sons, Edward C. James III of Providence, Michael G. James of Newport, Robert A. James of Newport, and David A. James of Stamford, CT.

She also leaves 14 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives, and her lifelong best friend, Laura (aka "Lotsie) Parker.

She was the sister of the late Ruffin A. and Owen Milton.

Milton's funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 7, 2010, at 11 a.m. in the Community Baptist Church, 50 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Boulevard in Newport. Burial will follow in Newport Memorial Park, Middletown.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 6, 2010, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Community Baptist Church.

Donations in her memory may be to the Community Baptist Church Building Fund.