James "Jimmy" McFarland was born in Toledo, Ohio on February 12, 1950, to Hasser Peppers-McFarland and was raised with the help of his grandparents, Florence and George Jackson. He made his transition on November 7, 2017.

A known gospel musican, James played the piano, organ, and keyboard and was a member of several gospel groups. He founded the gospel choir "Praises." James was featured with many well-known artists and performed in several musicals and plays.

Cherishing his memories are his loving children, James McFarland Jr. and wife, Knetra of Indianapolis, IN and J'uanette Concepcion and husband, Joseph of Seffner, FL; grandsons, James McFarland III and Joshua and Jonah Concepcion; brothers, Marquette and Vincent McFarland; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.