Calvary Open Door Worship Center Song Leader, James "Papa Jimmi" Irving

October 13, 1925 - September 12, 2006

Calvary Open Door Worship Center's Crown Jewel Takes His Flight

On Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at the age of 80, the crown jewel of our church family, James “Papa Jimmi” Irving,
moved to the mansion prepared for him by His Savior. Papa Jimmi loved to tell the story of how when he was only seven,
he heard the voice of God as clearly as one hears an earthly voice saying, “I have work for you to do.” to which he replied,
“Yes LORD!” It was then that Jimmi received Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. And so for 73 years, Jimmi Irving
was a humble servant to Jesus Christ, his Blessed Redeemer, whenever and wherever God could use him.
Papa Jimmi was a music leader at Calvary Open Door Worship Center since 1993. He loved leading the congregation
in the old-time gospel hymns, but our favorite thing was to hear him sing a solo as only he could do.
Jimmi’s confidence in eternal life was reflected in his favorite song, “I Am Redeemed,” which he sang
for us many times: “If anybody asks you just who I am, just tell them ‘I am redeemed.’” This was Jimmi Irving –
never drawing attention to his own name, but to Jesus Christ, the one who redeemed and bought him with
His own precious blood.

But I would not have you to be unware, brothers and sisters, concerning them which are asleep, that you sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so they also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.

1 Thessalonians 4:13,14