James C. Baldwin  III

James Calvin Baldwin III, age 51, of Nashville, Tennessee fell asleep in death on March 30, 2025. He was born on February 3, 1974, in Rockville Centre, Queens, New York, to James Calvin Baldwin Jr. and Marjorie Ruffin Baldwin. Though born in New York, James was raised in Richmond, Virginia, where he spent the majority of his life building deep relationships, a strong faith, and an unforgettable legacy.

He made the most important decision of his life when he dedicated himself to Jehovah and was baptized on December 22, 1990, at the Richmond Coliseum. His devotion led him to serve at Bethel beginning in 1993—an experience that deeply shaped his faith and connected him to spiritual brothers and friends who remained close throughout his life.  

James became a father on October 24, 2001, when his son JC was born—a relationship full of laughter, wisdom, and mutual admiration. On February 15, 2024, James married his best friend and true love, Teisha Monique Baldwin. Through that union, he became a devoted father to Jeyda and Mariah, stepping naturally and joyfully into the role with a love and connection that was instant and deeply felt by everyone who saw them together.  

James was known for his peaceful spirit, steady kindness, and the ability to bring laughter and comfort without saying much. He never argued, and always looked for ways to bring joy into every situation—through a joke, a shared memory, or a simple word of encouragement. Friends and family alike describe James as someone who influenced others for the better, not because he tried to—but because he loved deeply, quietly, and consistently.

He was a man of many talents and passions. His love of drawing, painting, and comics began in childhood and carried through into adulthood, especially in moments spent sharing those passions with his son. He was a true artist in both spirit and practice, and his appreciation for jazz music added another layer of soul to his already vibrant personality. Above all, James’s ministry was his deepest passion—a steady and personal expression of his love for Jehovah. He and Teisha found joy and purpose in pioneering together, side by side, united in their love for people and their dedication to sharing good news.  

He was also a fiercely loyal sports fan, following the Knicks, Jets (or Ravens by Week 7), Yankees, and Syracuse Orange—teams that may not have always rewarded his loyalty, but certainly helped prove his unshakable dedication. He also loved golfing, though it was clear that for James, the game was more about peace, fellowship, and joy than scorekeeping.  

James is preceded in death by his father, James Calvin Baldwin Jr.  

He is survived by his loving wife, Teisha Monique Baldwin; his children, JC, Jeyda Michelle and Mariah Trinese; his devoted mother, Marjorie Ruffin Baldwin; his brother, Joel Christopher Baldwin (with wife Kenyatta Everette Baldwin, and their son Aharon Micah Levi Baldwin); and his sister, Stacey Lynn Baldwin Alvarez (with husband Domingo Alvarez, and their daughters Taliah Valrie Brown and Jaslene Isabel Alvarez). He also shared a deeply special bond with his nephew, Christopher Jr, son of Teisha’s brother and nieces Aviana Malynn Vera and Aayuri Reign Vera, daughters of Teisha’s sister, whom he loved as his own—always showing up for them with warmth, humor, and a quiet strength that made them feel safe and cherished. He is also survived by his beloved aunt, Lois Ruffin Davis, and a wide circle of spiritual family and close friends whose lives were better, lighter, and more joyful because of James.

Though his time with us was far too short, James’s impact lives on. He made people laugh, yes—but far more, he made people feel loved. His gentle presence, his deep conviction, and his quiet humor will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. We look forward to welcoming him back in Jehovah’s promised resurrection, where we know he’ll greet us all with a smile—and, true to form, probably say just what we all need to hear: “I know that’s right.”