James Clifton Songer, better known to his friends and family as "JC" of Roanoke, Virginia, peacefully passed away on Friday, October 8, 2021, at the age of 57.

JC is preceded in death by his parents, Carl Marshall and Dianne Faye Joyce Songer; his grandmother, Lillie Belle Cline Joyce Altizer; brother, Kenneth Wayne Songer; uncle, Clifton Joyce; stepmother, Joyce Clay Songer; canine companions, Wong Ling Ping, Shantee', and Baby Girl; and numerous other Songer family members.

JC will long be remembered for his love of others, love of animals, and love of life. JC loved his family, near and far. JC always put others' needs and comforts before his own. What was his, was yours, to borrow or keep. Even if it meant he would go without. He often went without. JC's special talent was making everyone feel comfortable. He never met a stranger and he never was without words. His empathy and sympathy for mankind made him unique among us. He could often see the needs of others before many could see it themselves. To be loved by JC was a blessing. To meet JC was to know him. To know him, was to love him. JC's love and compassion extended to all animals. His heart was always on his sleeve when hearing of an animal's need. He was quick to love and comfort a stray or animal tossed aside. None were truly lost when JC was near. He shared his life with many companions and we know the Rainbow Bridge was a busy place upon his arrival. JC found humor in even the darkest of times. His laughter was contagious with twinkling eyes and a raucous hee hee hee, you could only laugh with him. You could not help yourself. JC believed to live a happy life you needed to turn the other cheek when wrong was cast onto you. He forgave all, and the harm caused to him was soon forgotten. JC wished for us all to turn the other cheek. He believed to carry hatred and anger in our hearts, left no room for love. That lack of love could only make us bitter and cold. In JCs memory, please consider forgiving those that need forgiving, and make amends where needed. Live the life JC wanted for us all. JC wanted you to know that when you feel the wind blow, or hear a cardinal sing, he will be by you. He loved the idea that the floor of heaven might have holes. He was happy in the thought that he maybe could watch over you and me.

Those left to cherish JC's memory are his aunt, Jackie Seamster (Greg); his brother, Kenneth Altice; niece, Lindsey Songer (daughter of Kenny Songer); friends, Trish Chisom (and family), Ronda Moore (Canine Toby); many friends near and far; and numerous other Songer family members.

On Sunday, November 7, 2021, A Celebration of Life Service to honor JC will be held immediately following Sunday Service at United Christian Inner-City Ministries, Jamison and 9th St. Roanoke VA. Sunday Service begins at 11:00 a.m.

An inurnment service will be held at Hankins Cemetery, Tazewell County, VA on Thursday, November 4, 2021.

In lieu of flowers, JC requested Memorial Contributions to:

United Christian Inner City Ministries, 828 Jamison Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013

Assisi Animal Clinics of VA, Inc., 415 Campbell Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016