Remembering James Ransone: A Look at His Family and Legacy
James Ransone is survived by his spouse, Jamie McPhee, and their two children.
The news of the passing of the The Wire actor surfaced on Sunday, December 21, at the age of 46. Us Weekly verified through records from the Los Angeles Medical Examiner that Ransone died as a result of suicide.
McPhee has since shared a touching Instagram message following her husband’s death.
“I expressed to you my love countless times, and I know it will continue,” she wrote alongside the social media post on Sunday. “You told me – I should strive to be more like you, and you should embrace more of my qualities – and you were absolutely correct. Thank you for the wonderful gifts of you, Jack and Violet. Our bond is eternal.”
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Although Ransone rarely discussed his family publicly, Jamie frequently provided glimpses into their family life, posting Instagram photos of the actor and their children.
“Another year has passed. Thank you for all the birthday wishes,” Jamie wrote with a family photo in January 2022. “I am deeply thankful for this life, with all its perfectly joyful moments and profoundly sad times, and everything in between. Sending love to all my friends worldwide. And at least Violet knows how to pose for a picture.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched, aiming to collect $120,000 to “assist Jamie and the children as they adjust to life after this devastating loss,” as stated on the website.
“Its intention is straightforward: to allow Jamie to fully concentrate on Jack and Violet, to nurture them, safeguard their feeling of stability, and ensure they have a promising future – even in the absence of James’s presence in their daily lives,” the GoFundMe page explains.
Continue reading for details about the late Ransone’s family:
Who Were James Ransone’s Parents?
The late Ransone – known as PJ to family and friends – was raised by his parents, Joyce and James II, in Baltimore. His father was a veteran of the Vietnam War, the actor shared in a July 2015 interview.
Ransone also had a younger brother, though further information about him has not been made public.
Who Is James Ransone’s Wife?
Ransone and McPhee married in September 2017 at Rosewood Beach on Lake Michigan, according to her Instagram. There isn't much information available about their relationship, but McPhee did share insights into their life with their two children through several social media posts.
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“Happy Birthday to the most wonderful dad, my courageous and brilliant husband PJ,” she captioned a June 2022 post. “I hope our children inherit your bravery, and yes, I did let him skateboard downhill with Jack when he was one year old.”
Did James Ransone Have Children?
Their son, Jack, was born in May 2019.
“We couldn’t love you more, and you are by far the best decision we ever made,” McPhee wrote in an Instagram post announcing his birth.
Ransone and McPhee welcomed their daughter, Violet, in May 2021.
“Meet Violet,” she captioned an Instagram post at the time. “Born 5/11/21 🦄 7lbs 14oz ☂️20.5” tall 🪁 It’s been 11 days since you arrived, but it feels like you’ve always been a part of our world. Dad, Jack and I adore you.”


