James Ray Wren, Sr. was born in Wynne, Arkansas, on November 29, 1957, to Mr. Willie Wren, Jr. and Mrs. Jessie Mae Wren. He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Robert and Larry K. Wren; three sisters, Betty Jo Wren, Victoria Poole, and Linda Wren; son, Diamond Wren; three nephews, Terry, Craig B, and Jaris.

James moved from Wynne, Arkansas to Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 3 years old. He was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School District and graduated from Central High School. After graduation, he joined the United States Army. While serving in the military, he became an expert in shooting the M-16 Rifle. As a result of this skill, he was listed as a Sharpshooter. He also was well skilled in the use of the Hand Grenade. James received the Good Conduct Medal Army Services Ribbon and Overseas Ribbon with Numeral 1.

James enjoyed spending time with his family. He was the uncle you called who could fix anything. James (Papa) loved spoiling his grandkids. He would do anything for them.

James worked at Panera Bread for years. Then he worked in construction until he retired.

James departed this life on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at his home.

James leaves to cherish his memory: one son, James (Vanessa Rolf) Wren, Jr. of Kansas City, Missouri; one daughter, Angelisha (Deanques) Wraggs of St. Paul; brothers, Rashed (Phylis) Hakeem, Daniel Bailey, Lorenzo Bailey, Larry Wren, Craig Wren, and Willie Wren, II; sisters, Toni Bailey, Connie Clark, Frances Brager, Barbara Williams, Dece Bailey, Cynthia Bailey, and Randy Wilson; grandchildren, Darius, Destiny, Diamond Wren, Asiaj'Nae, De'Mia, X'Zaivyon, and Deyon Wraggs; great-grandchildren, I'ynn, I'Zayah, Myla, Legend, Rhy'Lee, Malaya, Dior, and Kingston; two special friends, Shirley Cooper and Lachelle Smith; and a host of other relatives.

Thoughtful care and services provided E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.