A Beautiful Life

Jimmie was born in Lake Wales. Florida to Fred and Annie Bell Dancer and grandson to Robert and Lenora Sowell. Following the death of his parents, Jimmie was reared in Jasper. His

grandparents along with aunts, uncles and other relatives provided love and stability. Aunt Rosa Lee White continued to support throughout her lifetime.

As a child, Jimmie committed his life to Christ and received his religious training at New Bethel AME Church where he was Sunday School Superintendent, president of the junior choir and

a leader and role model for all.

A 1969 graduate of J.R.E. Lee High School in Jasper, Jimmie was valedictorian and president of the class. Jimmie continued his education at Florida A & M Universitv (FAMU) where he continued to exemplify excellence as a member of the Beta Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Inc. and was awarded "Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and

Colleges" before earning his degree in Pharmacy in 1973 and becoming a Registered Pharmacist in Florida, Ohio and Georgia. Driven by an inner desire and drive known only to him as a

child, Jimmie entered medical school at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and graduated with distinction.

After years working at such notable institutions as the Cleveland Clinic, Jimmie relocated to Atlanta, GA where his continued his distinguished career as a Fellow in the American College of Physicians and Fellow & Master in the Society of Hospital Medicine. Jimmie worked at several well-known hospitals and clinics before finding his home and medical family at Emorv Saint Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta. Jimmie's accolades and recognition are numerous but most recently he was named Top Internist and Hospitalist in 2019. Jimmie traveled the globe to continents, countries and the major cities of the world including Africa, Argentina, China, Athens, Greece, London, Paris and Rome, but he never forgot his roots are his humble beginnings in the cotton, tobacco and vegetable fields of Jasper, FL. He remained a lifelong supporter of his hometown community in Jasper, his Alma Mater, FAMU, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Case Western Reserve University and his church homes, New Bethel AME of Jasper, FL and Saint Philip AME or Atlanta, GA. Jimmie who cherished faith and family above all, entered into his rest and his spirit returned to the loving arms of his Creator, God. His authenticity, integrity, leadership and Christian faith are the precious legacies he leaves for his beloved sisters: Sandra Dancer Thomas and Sharon Mathis; Nieces: Jasmine and Chantelle Sowell; Nephews: Robert Joel Thomas, Jamian

Mathis, Maurice Marcus, Jonah, Jovan and Omarion Sowell; Devoted cousin who was like a sister: Gloria Jean Paramore; two godchildren and a host of cousins and friends; Mentors: Dr. Castell V. Bryant, the Chandlers and former Supt. Charles Blalock. Jimmie was so very proud of his mentor, Mr. Blalock and took great pride in attending his swearing-in ceremonies and

other auspicious occasions.