Guan Yolanda James passed away on June 2, 2022 at 53 years of age. She was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on November 24, 1968 to Henry Williams James and Laverne Bolden Ryan. 

Guan graduated from Little Rock Central High School in 1987 and took classes at Philander Smith College and Pulaski Technical College. She was an avid reader and had a wealth of knowledge. Affectionately known as “Boo-Boo,” she was the spring board that prepared the little ones for grade school. Many would say she was an educator without the formal degrees.

Guan was a big-hearted woman who was best known for her compassion, quick wit, and eclectic taste in music. She was an individual that didn’t have friends, there were blood relatives and chosen family. She was fiercely loyal and protective of those that meant something to her. She was a guiding light for those who felt lost and misunderstood.

She was preceded in death by her father, Henry James.

Her memory will continue to be cherished by Her mother, Laverne Ryan; her brother, Kip James; her son, Taylor James-Lightner (Morgan); her daughter, Jordan James-Lightner (Jasmine); her granddaughter, Kamryn “Bella” James-Lightner; her niece, Nia James; and her twin nephews Myles & Malcolm James.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 10, 2022, 11:00am in the Hardy Funeral Home Memorial Chapel, 5300 West 12th Street.