James Edward Luster

With heavy hearts, we gather to remember and honor the life of James Edward Luster, who was born on September 2, 1944, in Marietta, Georgia, as the second of three siblings, to the late Florence and Jake Luster. As a beloved son, brother, and friend, James was raised with a deep sense of purpose and integrity, instilled in him by his devoted family and community. From an early age, he learned the values of hard work, the importance of family, and a profound reverence for the Lord. These guiding principles shaped the man he became; a person who carried love for his family, faith, and strength into every part of his life. As we reflect on his journey, we find comfort in the legacy of the uniqueness and dedication that he leaves behind. James Edward Luster's journey through life was marked by dedication and service to both his country and his community. He received his primary education from the Marietta City School District, graduating in 1962 from Lemon Street High School. Driven by a desire to serve, James enlisted in the United States Army, with hopes of serving in the Vietnam War. However, fate led him to Germany, where he was stationed for several years. There, he worked diligently to serve his country, while earning the respect of his fellow soldiers. After being honorably discharged from the military, James Edward Luster embraced the next chapter of his life with a renewed sense of purpose and hope for the future. Upon his return home from the military, he felt a deep need to move his family to California, where he began building his work career out West. However, after a decade, James returned home to Georgia, where he found his calling as a mortgage and housing specialist with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In a decision driven by his deep sense of responsibility to his family, James chose to leave HUD and join his father in running the family business, Eastside Cab Company. Over time, he became the proud owner of the cab stand, a role he held for over two decades. Known as "James #8," he became a beloved figure in Marietta, particularly among the senior citizens and disabled members of the community. His reliability, kindness, and generous spirit earned him a reputation that will forever be remembered, as he faithfully served those in need with a heart full of compassion. James's legacy will live on in the many lives he touched throughout his years of service and dedication. James Edward Luster was the proud father of two children, Ellen Ranesa and De’ Rashad Luster, from his first marriage. In 1983, James began a new and beautiful chapter in his life when he married Regina Rice. Their marriage, which would last 41 years until his passing, was built on love, partnership, and shared commitment. Together, James and Regina worked tirelessly to support their children and to raise their beloved grandson, Devin Luster. Their united strength as a couple, devoted to family, was a testament to the deep love and bond they shared. James's legacy lives on through his children, grandson, and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey. On December 26, 2024, God called James home from labor to reward. He is now free from the cares of this world and is resting in the arms of the Savior. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his younger brother, Bobby Luster. James leaves to cherish everlasting memories: his devoted wife, Regina Luster, Kennesaw, Georgia; his daughter, Ellen Ranesa Luster, Dallas, Georgia; his son, De’ Rashad Luster, Austin, Texas; grandsons, Devin Blaine Luster, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Evan Ramsey Lloyd, Dallas, Georgia; brother, John D. Luster, Kennesaw, Georgia; sister in-law, Diane Harrison; special niece, Grace Davis; special cousin, Minister Cornell Hall; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones.