James E. Cosby

James E. Cosby, age 86, of South Holland, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, at approximately 7:00 AM in the morning. He was born and raised in the Cedars community of Vicksburg, Mississippi on October 20, 1938, to the late Logan and Mamie Cosby. He was affectionately known to friends and family as "Brother." He attended Cedars Elementary School and St Mary’s High School. James left Mississippi to become a part of the African American Great Migration when he graduated from high school and headed north. He moved to Chicago, where he worked at Spiegel Catalog Company briefly and then went on to become B & O Railroad's first African American Switchman in October 1963. James was a dedicated employee at B & O Railroad, which later became CSX Railroad, for 37 years and he missed only one day of work during his entire time there. He was a conductor when he retired from CSX in October 2000. He was a proud member of the Army National Guard. Upon retirement, the overall sports enthusiast discovered a love of golf and was an active participant for as long as his health allowed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Logan and Mamie Cosby; his brothers: Logan Cosby (L.C.) – Chicago, IL, John Cosby - Chicago, IL, and Robert Cosby – Great Falls, MT; and his sisters: Willie Mae Cosby – Chicago, IL, and Margie (Doll Baby) Davis – Buffalo, NY.

He is survived by his wife, Vernina (Bobbie) Cosby, his sister, Mamie Watts – Detroit, MI, and his brother, Curtis Cosby – Detroit, MI, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. James was dearly loved by his family, friends, and church, and his loss will be keenly felt.

Visitation Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Smits, DeYoung-Vroegh Funeral Home 649 E. 162nd St. (Rt.6/159th St.) South Holland, IL.  Funeral Mass Monday, August 25, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. directly at Christ Our Savior/St. Jude the Apostle Church 880 E. 154th St. South Holland, IL, with Rev. Gosbert Rwezahura officiating. Entombment Holy Cross Cemetery – Calumet City, IL.

(Luncheon to follow Mass; Entombment to follow luncheon)

For further information, please contact 708-333-7000 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com