James J. Metoyer

James Joseph Metoyer, 83, of Chicago, Illinois passed away peacefully on January 20, 2023 in Lansing, Illinois. James was born on January 8, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, and was the son of the late James C. and Mary Ann Metoyer. Loving husband to Melvina, father to daughter, Mia Baker, and grandfather to Mya Baker. James is also brother to Paul Metoyer and sisters Barbara Porter, the late Therese (Sue) Baker, Patricia Russi, Rosemary Carter, and the late Margaret Philon. He is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

James served in the Illinois National Guard and was honored to be the President of the Saint Cleotilde Mens Club. During his career, he worked at Hyatt Hotel in downtown Chicago as a Doorman over 20 years. His family relocated to California where he worked at Lockheed Martin 2 years as a Journeyman Painter. The family returned to Chicago where he spent 31 years working for Southwest Airlines as a Skycap. He retired from Southwest Airlines two days after his 80th birthday.

James Metoyer had a very kind and compassionate spirit. He was very reserved, but if he liked you he would welcome you with open arms. James loved to smile and make people smile and laugh despite the situation. He had a positive outlook on life and would do absolutely any and everything to make his family happy. His never-ending generosity was obvious to all of those who got the opportunity to know him. James loved animals and as a child would bring home stray dogs. His favorite dog was Great Dane Ferragamo, who he helped raise and take care of until he died. He took him to puppy training school and paid for his ears to be cropped because he was such a large dog, he wanted Ferragamo to look "regal and sophisticated ".

He loved to read the entire newspaper daily and how he shared stories with his family about our creole roots on Cane River in Louisiana.  James could not dance but loved listening to the Blues and Jazz music and would blast music while driving in his car. He was very meticulous about his looks at all times as he enjoyed dressing in the latest designer labels, getting his monthly manicures and pedicures, and using his favorite colognes. He loved staying on the go; taking long drives throughout the various suburbs; and tinkering and maintaining his lawn. James leaves an indelible legacy in his daughter, granddaughter, and all who loved him.

Visitation and mass on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at St. Veronica Catholic Church, 1131 Douglas Ave, Flossmoor, Illinois, 10:00 am. Procession to Holy Cross Cemetery Chapel following mass, 801 Michigan City Rd., Calumet, Illinois.

TO VIEW THE LIVESTREAM OF THE FUNERAL MASS, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW:

https://www.facebook.com/events/922220348950632/