James Walter Files "Jimmy" of New Haven, CT, entered eternal rest on Friday January 21, 2022. He was born in Franklin, VA on July 9, 1936, the son of the late Linwood Files and Lessie Smith-Outlaw.

He served in the United States Army. After an honorable discharge, James relocated to Connecticut and started his career in Construction.

He is survived by a brother, Stanley Outlaw; a sister, Lavonne Outlaw both of VA; nine children, James Johnson (Angela) of Virginia, James Files (Denise) of Virginia, Tyrone Adams (Marthenia) of Connecticut, Jonathan Scott Files (Lucille) of Connecticut, Linwood Files (Donna) of Maryland, Sharon Renay Files of North Carolina, Tracy Files and Yolanda Moses both of Connecticut and Neekal Johnson (William) of Maryland. Also to cherish in his memory are nineteen grandchildren; thirty-one great grandchildren; and a great-great grandchild; and longtime companion Lauren Edmondson.

The burial will be private.