Detroit, October 17, 2025
News Summary
James R. Stokes, a dedicated community leader and advocate in Detroit, passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was widely recognized for his contributions to education, social services, and the Arab community. Stokes was a licensed attorney, counselor, and military veteran, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment to social justice. A funeral service is scheduled to honor his memory, reflecting the impact he had on many lives.
Detroit, Michigan – James R. Stokes, a distinguished community leader and advocate, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 74 years old.
Born on June 5, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, Jim Stokes was the son of John C. and Kathleen (née Hatty) Stokes. His profound commitment to education and community service led him to pursue various degrees, including a bachelor’s in history/philosophy, a master’s in divinity, a master’s in counseling, and a Juris Doctor degree. He was a Licensed Professional Counselor and Attorney, showcasing his dedication to both legal and social service fields.
Stokes was recognized for his extensive work with the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (A.C.C.E.S.S.), where he served on the board for over 25 years and earned emeritus status for his contributions. He also played a vital role as a Center Partner with the Affirmations LGBTQ+ community center and was actively involved in various civic organizations.
In acknowledgment of his community service, Jim received several prestigious awards, including an honorary bachelor’s degree from SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary for his dedication to counseling and social services. In 2008, he was honored as the Outstanding Arab American in State Government by the Yemen American Benevolent Association (Y.A.B.A.), and in 2012, he was named Attorney of the Year by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce.
During his professional career, Stokes served as Director of Appointments for the State of Michigan under Governor Jennifer Granholm’s administration and was an appointee to the Henry Ford College Community Leaders Advisory Council. He had a lasting impact on students by playing Santa Claus for over 30 years at Salina School in Dearborn, where he assisted many children from immigrant backgrounds.
Stokes was also a dedicated family man. He was predeceased by his spouse, Frederick W. Hoffman, who lost his battle with cancer on October 26, 2019. Together, they celebrated a loving partnership that lasted 36 years, including four years of legal marriage after it was enacted in 2015. They established and endowed scholarships in public policy at several universities, including Henry Ford College and Michigan State University School of Law, reflecting their shared commitment to education and social justice.
He is survived by his loving wife Sue, daughter Susan Stokes, grandchildren Kaitlyn and Matthew Stokes, along with many other family members and friends who mourn his passing. Jim’s military service included honorable duty in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He also worked for the City of Warren Department of Public Works for 30 years and was an active member of the Detroit Moslem Shriners, Centerline Masonic Lodge #550 F & AM, and the Scottish Rite Valley-Detroit Freemasons.
As a tribute to his life, a funeral mass will be celebrated on October 27, 2025, at St. Bonaventure Capuchin Monastery in Detroit. The church gathering will commence at 10:00 am, followed by the funeral mass at 11:00 am, with a luncheon to follow the service. Jim and Fred will be interred together in the Solanus Casey Columbarium and Cremation Garden at Mt. Elliott Cemetery.
In honor of Jim Stokes, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Michigan Veteran Homes at Chesterfield Township.
Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects at the D.S. Temrowski Funeral Home in Warren on April 4, 2024. A funeral service will take place on April 5, 2024, from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. as they come together to celebrate his remarkable life and contributions to the community.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: James Stokes Obituary
- Wikipedia: Detroit
- Dignity Memorial: Walter Stokes Obituary
- Google Search: James Stokes
- New York Times: CJ Stokes Follows His Own Path
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jennifer Granholm
- Detroit Free Press: Fredrick Hoffman Passes Away
- Google News: Michigan Veteran Homes
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
