The Utah Travelers Gospel Singers -When You See Me Coming / I Want To Thank You Lord (1981) .Fabulous single of gospel soul.

Babe Jones-Lead Singer

Richard Nelson-1st Tenor and Second Lead

Judge "Pat" Pea-Bass

Arnold Spearman-Second Tenor

Leon Spearman-Baritone

James Edward Glasper-Organist and choirs

James Morris-Guitarist

Fabian Martinez-Bass Guitar

Marvin Dixon-Drums

Marvin Dixon

https://www.soultonecymbals.com/artist/marvin-dixon

I started play drums at the age of 12-13 years old and got my first drum lesson around that time i didn't play in any serious band in tell i got a lot of practicing time in and that was a lot of work in progress that when i started to get in a bands my first band was James Morris & bloodline band 1979 - 1980 next was with the Utah Travelers Gospel Singers 1980-1984 & Ut MASS CHOIR - 1986-1989- Harbinger Christian rock band 1992-1995 youth Quake - 1995-2004 Jezus ride a riksha- 2004-2005 Frustrations gripp-
2006-2016 A balance of power
Outside of was formed in June of 2016 Did our first EP on 12-18-16 at BOHO DIGITALIA Studio David Espinoza David Richards Ryan Shafer Marvin Dixon tour 8-18-16 @ Hard Hat Lounge Las Vegas 8-19-16 @ The whiskey a go go in west Hollywood 8-21-16 @ Black Light District On January 20th open up for bang Tango when used to play with a balance of power signed a contract to be the first Jagermeister band in Utah in 2009 been showcase on the rockstar Energy Drink mayhem festivals in 2010,2011,& 2012 holding our own with UNEARTH, AS I LAY DYING, HATEBREED ANTHRAX AND IN FLAMES just to name a few Landed a slot on the Legendary INDIANPOLIS METAL FEST along side Hitters CHIMAIRA THE BROWING and INCANTATION releasing 3 studio EP'S with supporting tour for each 2009 Stomp the ground 2011, pride precedes the fall, 2012 Kinfing the Beast, 2014 release of the band first full length album Death of a Thousands Dreams cuz my music history

James Morris

https://starksfuneral.com/obituary/celebrating-the-life-of-james-d-morris/

Celebrating the Life of James D. Morris

November 13, 1950 - September 4, 2025

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James D. Morris (affectionately known as Dad, Pops, PawJames, Deac, the Closer, JimmyJames, and J. Mo) was born on November 13, 1950 in Collins, MS, to Leon and Elva Morris. He entered the presence of the Lord on September 4, 2025, in South Jordan, UT, surrounded by love and prayer.

James dedicated his life first and foremost to God, as a faithful servant and long time member of Calvary Baptist Church in Salt Lake City, UT. He was known as a man of great faith who loved God out loud. He lived his beliefs with boldness, humility, and kindness, sharing his light with everyone he encountered. He was the first sound director for Calvary Baptist Church sharing his musical knowledge and talents with his voice & instruments with the choir and musicians. He was the Pillar Director for Worship Experience, Deacon, Instructor for Wednesday Noon Bible Study, Ministry Leader for Benevolence, cooked for Vacation Bible School & other Church events & served wherever & whenever he was needed.

As a Vietnam Veteran, James served his country with honor before returning home to serve his community. His spirit of service never wavered, whether in uniform, in ministry, or through simple daily acts of love.

Music flowed through James’s soul. He started his musical career while still in high school with the Entertainers. He was a gifted lead guitarist and vocalist who shared his talents in many groups such as the ones he founded & cofounded: James Morris and Bloodline, New Generation of Gospel, the James Morris Band, Laidback and a funk and R&B group called People In Music Power. He played with the Soulifters, Superstar, Funktion, BEHT JAMMA, Utah Travelers and NMOTION. He sang his heart out across the community and lifted spirits wherever he played, sharing his talents with Bo Diddley, Ohio Players, Pete Seegers, the Children’s Dance Theater, the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Mahalia Jackson, Kurt Bestor, Living Traditions, the Utah Arts Festival and many more.

James also had an entrepreneurial spirit and he once owned a toy store in the historic Trolley Square and later combined his love of food with his entrepreneurial drive by founding Summertime BBQ Catering. Known for smoking some of the best BBQ and turkeys in Utah, he shared not just meals but moments of joy, laughter, and connection around the table.

He had many jobs protecting and taking care of his family, too numerous to name. He landed at his favorite spot, Western & Delta Airlines in 1983 and retired in 2019. He was part of the Delta Family, where they shared everything, looked out for each other and loved each other. They had a strong work/friend bond like no other. They stayed in touch through the very end.

Those who knew James will remember him as calm, loving, and dedicated not only to his wife and children, but also to his extended family, friends, and church family. His life was a reflection of steadfast faith, deep love, and generosity of spirit.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia Morris; his children, son Cedric (Tracy) Morris and daughter Taedra Morris; his sister in-law, Phyllis Morris; his siblings, Mignon Morris, Courtney Morris, Phyllis Johnson, Sherri Johnson, Gerald (Savita) Whitehorn, and Rob (Cabrina) Thomas; brothers in-law, Wayne (Sarah) Hopkins, Greg (Wendy) Hopkins, Harold Hopkins, Ken (Stacy) Hopkins and Tony Hopkins; grandson Daeshaun Co’Ward; godchildren Daijah Joseph, Kaden Merrills and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and dear friends who will carry forward his legacy of love. He was preceded in death by his father Leon (Anna) Morris, mother Elva Morris and brother Lee Morris.

A Celebration of A Life Well Lived will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Morris Residence from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, have fun and honor James’s remarkable life. James’s journey reminds us all of the beauty of faith, family, music, and fellowship. Until we meet again, his voice lives on in every heart he touched.

Officiant Pastor Oscar T. Moses, Calvary Baptist Church

To share memories and sign the guest book online please visit Starks Funeral Parlor at Starksfuneral.com

 

James Edward Glasper

https://www.russonmortuary.com/obituaries/james-glasper

abril 5, 1934 — febrero 14, 2023

Salt Lake City, UT

James Edward Glasper was born to the union of Alonzo Glasper and Izoria (Midgett) Glasper, who preceded him in death. He was born in Vandermier, N.C., on April 5, 1934, and transitioned from this life February 14, 2023. He had 4 siblings. Hazel Marie Glasper (LeDuff) and Caroline Elizabeth Glasper (Jones) both preceded him in death. He has two sisters to cherish his memories: Edna Ruth Glasper (Ware) of Salt Lake City, Utah, and E. Faye Glasper (Wine) of Atlanta, Georgia.

James was married to Virginia Hazel Armstrong. who preceded him in death. To their union 8 children were born. He was also married to Helen Fisher (who preceded him in death) and he became a father to a daughter. His children are: Karynthia Annette Glasper Phillips (Timothy), James Edward Glasper Jr., Blondina Glasper White (Richard), Demetry Glasper, Stephanie Glasper, Stephan Glasper (preceded him in death), Thia Marie Grayson, and Terrance Alonzo Glasper, and Sonya Little-Jones (William). 
His grandchildren: Terrell, Amber, Eboni, Jordan, Curtis, Deshawn (Lisa), April, Treatta (Nebiyou), Danielle, (Latoya and Kendraya both preceded him in death),  Moniece, Stephan, Shaquille, Kwanmaine, Stacey, Terrence, Tiyana, Shaneece, Terrance Jr., Jamal, Terran, Shante, Lanette Tillman (Tyrone), Shanna Little, Monica Gill(Anthony), and there are 36 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson to continue his legacy.

He was educated in the public school systems in New Bern, N.C., graduated from West High School and attended North Carolina College. He was commissioned in Raleigh N.C. to the United States Army July 1, 1954, and with an honorable discharge completed his assignment as a para-trooper June 29, 1956. He was awarded the National Defense Medal Para-trooper Badge. James Edward Glasper grew in the knowledge of his Lord and Savior. He enjoyed praying and listening to his children pray and sing with him.

He lived several years in New Haven, Connecticut, and enjoyed his role as a musician playing in a local band. Later moving to Salt Lake City, Utah, he continued his love for music as a musician/singer with the Utah Travelers Gospel group performing across the state. Their dedication earned an honorarium commendation from the governor of Utah. James received many accolades as a musician in our community. James was a conductor and trombonist for the West Valley Symphonic Orchestra.

James Edward Glasper was the minister of music for several local churches including Shiloh Baptist Church and Solid Rock Baptist Church. As the minister of music, he served his church home Unity Baptist Church in Salt Lake City, Utah, under the pastorate of Rev. Harold O. Fields.

Affectionately known as “Daddy Jim,” he was very passionate about the arts as it was not unusual to see him playing a piano anywhere. Yes, even in the mall, and restaurants if he saw a piano not being used, he would go play. Ironically, he was an actor in various plays. In March 1979, he was interviewed as one of the actors in a Black History production. The local community newspaper featured two of his quotes: “Adversity made us strong” and “Faith in God kept us loving” words that we can live by in our world today. James Edward Glasper not only loved the arts he was a man who loved life to the fullest. He enjoyed indoor and outdoor activities, such as landscaping, and fishing. He was an avid fan of the Utah Jazz and Running Utes football, and good southern cooked food. What a man. Our beloved father’s accomplishments did not surpass his dedication to his family and church life.

James Edward Glasper “A Family Man and Friend to All” his legacy will be remembered as one whose heartfelt smile touched many lives as he demonstrated kindness to those he encountered. He was a man of honor, a man of his word, and a man of God. It is his desire that all who knew him love one another and enjoy life.

He has gone to be with the Father; however, James leaves many memories to keep him alive in the hearts of a host of siblings, daughters, sons, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandson, and friends to cherish. May this beloved patriarch’s life speak and teach his lineage life lessons of unity, love, peace, joy, and honor. We love you . . . Daddy, Big Papa, and Daddy Jim.

“I am not present in body, but my spirit lives on through the memories that we made together.”

Celebration of Life Service for James Edward Glasper will be held on

Monday, February 27, 2023

Viewing 11 am

Service 12 noon

Unity Baptist Church, 1170 West 1000 North, Salt Lake City, Utah 84116

Burial Camp Williams:  Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park

Memories may be shared in the "Guestbook" on this obituary page.

https://nhdsilentheroes.org/profiles/james-edward-glasper/

Private James Edward Glasper

• Date of Birth: April 5, 1934
• Entered the Military: July 1, 1954
• Date of Death: February 14, 2023
• Hometown: Vladermier, North Carolina
• Place of Death: Salt Lake City, Utah
• Award(s): National Defense Medal and the Paratrooper Badge
• Cemetery: section B3, site 73. Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park, Bluffdale, Utah

Contributed by Ellie Allred, Maysen Baranowski, Jasmine Burnett, Jessi Christensen, Ryker Dallinga, Izola Dunlevy, Ideyn Estrada, Logan Forbes, Harper Gregersen, Elle, Jane, Malachi Johns, Gunnar Knudsen, Kieran Langeland, Evelyn Lee, Witten Lundberg, Micah Mecham, Jordan Mendoza, Kylianne O'Gwin, Ambyer, Hailey Quillen, Gabriel Reynolds, Oliver Schofield, Lana Seale, Aiden Smith, Dani Stoddard, and Treyson Taylor
Mentored by Mrs. Heidi Stone
Syracuse Arts Academy Junior High School (Syracuse, Utah)
2024/2025

Early Life

Private James Edward Glasper was born on April 5, 1934, in Vandemere, North Carolina, to loving parents, Alonzo Glasper and Izoria Glasper. He had four siblings, Lazel, Caroline, Edna, and E. Faye.

Glasper attended and graduated from West High School in New Bern, North Carolina. Until the 1950s, this was the only K-12 public school for African Americans in New Bern. He then attended North Carolina College (now North Carolina Central University) in Durham. While attending, he played the trombone in the North Carolina College marching band. 

James Glasper as a young man. Courtesy of Sonya Little-Jones and Karynthia Phillips.

James Glasper’s North Carolina College yearbook photo. Ancestry.

James Glasper with members of the North Carolina College marching band. He on the left, playing the trombone. The Durham Sun, October 29, 1959.

Homefront

In the 1950s, New Bern, North Carolina, was known for its beautiful greenery. Two rivers bordered the region, with the Neuse River Bridge considered the key landmark. Although it was primarily rural, things began to change in the late 1940s with the introduction of electricity, which altered the way farming was conducted. A bonus of electricity was that it allowed farmers to move away from manual and animal labor on the farm to electric motors, which powered pumps, milking machines, grain elevators, and small tractors. With the invention of the refrigerator, farmers were also able to store perishables, such as milk, meat, and produce. This led to higher profits and less waste as products had a longer shelf-life. 

The North Carolina Shipping Company built 243 “Victory Class” and “Liberty Class” ships during World War II. While the company shut down after World War II, some of these ships were brought back into service during the Korean War. One ship, the SS Meredith Victory, was especially significant, as it was used in the evacuation of 14,000 refugees in a single trip during the war—a huge humanitarian effort by a single ship. 

Located near New Bern, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point played a crucial role in supporting the military during the Korean War. It trained pilots, aircrew, and maintenance workers to replace those in frontline aviation units. During World War II, North Carolina built and expanded four air bases that remained in operation to support the Korean War effort. They are all still in operation today. The state’s open farmland and strategic East Coast location—ideal for protecting shipping routes—made it especially valuable for military development. Its mild winters also allowed pilots to train year-round.

Military Experience

On July 1, 1954, James Glasper was drafted into the U.S. Army at Raleigh, North Carolina and was stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

During this time in the service, he underwent rigorous training to become a paratrooper. Part of a paratrooper’s training is working on airborne skills, including the daring job of jumping from planes with firearms, safely landing at the objective, and fighting to the best of their abilities, all while entering enemy territory. The airborne training takes three weeks. Some daily tasks included lessons on properly donning a parachute, training on exiting the aircraft, and on safely landing, as well as lots of physical exercises. Much later in life, when Glasper flew in a civilian airplane as a passenger, he commented that it was the first time he had landed in an airplane, rather than outside of it with a parachute. 

After serving for two years, Glasper was awarded the National Defense Medal and the Paratrooper Badge for his service and was honorably discharged from the Army on July 29, 1956.

Paratroopers jumping out of C-123 airplanes. Air Facts.

Veteran Experience

Life After Service

Private Glasper stayed in North Carolina and married Virginia Hazel in early 1961. He was employed as a conductor, bandmaster, and teacher at North Carolina Central University. He and his wife, Hazel, lived with their two young children, James and Karynthia, in campus housing. 

Later, he and his brother-in-law moved to New Haven, Connecticut, for work in city sanitation. After saving enough money, he sent for his family of six children. He hoped that moving them to Connecticut would provide them with a better life.

Together, he and Virginia had a total of eight children: Karynthia, James, Blondina, Demetry, Stephanie, Stephan, Thia, and Terrance. After years of bliss and turbulence, the couple eventually separated and later divorced. 

The Move to Utah

After divorcing Hazel, Glasper visited his sisters in Utah and decided to make it his home. Glasper married Helen Fisher in July 1977, and became a father to her daughter, Sonya. He was affectionately nicknamed “Daddy Jim.” The nickname stuck, and he was forever known as “Daddy Jim” by his family. He had a deep knowledge of his Lord and Savior. He loved to pray, listen to his children pray, and sing with them. Continuing his passion for music, James Glasper taught music at Hillside Junior High School.

Glasper also became a singer and musician for the Utah Travelers Gospel Group, which performed across the state. Additionally, he was a music minister for several churches throughout the Salt Lake Valley, including his home church, Unity Baptist Church. He loved music so much that it was normal to see him playing piano whenever one was available. 

At age 41, he assisted with the Utah Youth Symphony and occasionally conducted it. He was also a conductor and trombonist for the West Valley Symphonic Orchestra. Most of all, he loved teaching and sharing his love of music with many students. 

After retirement, Glasper worked as a crossing guard for a local school. In that role, he liked to play music and dance in the crosswalk while blowing his whistle, which provoked smiles on all the children’s faces as they crossed the street. 

James E. Glasper’s time in the military had a profound impact on him, and he chose to reside at the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salt Lake City during the final years of his life. He loved the comradeship of being around fellow military members. He was proud to have served in the United States Army. 

James Glapser with the Utah Travelers Gospel Group. Courtesy of Sonya Little-Jones and Karynthia Phillips.

James Glasper loved to dress up; he even had matching shoes with this outfit. Courtesy of Sonya Little-Jones and Karynthia Phillips.

Commemoration

James E. Glasper will always be remembered for his love of music and the manner by which he inspired others through it. He believed it helped people to thrive. Like Glasper, we should draw inspiration from our life experiences. We can impact our world by sharing our passions with others, just as he did. Glasper transitioned to his heavenly home on February 14, 2023, after leaving his mark on the world through filling it with his music and his contagious smile.

He is buried at the Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park in Bluffdale, Utah.

James Glasper’s grave at the Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park in Bluffdale, Utah. Courtesy of Heidi Stone.

Syracuse Arts Academy students with Sonja Little-Jones at James Glasper’s eulogy reading. Courtesy of Heidi Stone.