Jim attended school in Houston and went to college at Texas A&M, where he earned a degree in Biochemistry. After college, he answered the call of duty and proudly served in the United States Army, mostly in Germany. His time in the military shaped his deep sense of discipline, loyalty, and responsibility-values he carried throughout his life.

After returning from service, Jim settled into civilian life with determination. He married in 1959 and though the marriage ended in divorce years later, it brought him the joy of family and fatherhood. He was blessed with a son, Drayton, and later adopted a daughter, Vanessa. He remarried in 1981 to Esther, and they celebrated their 44th anniversary on the day he passed away.

Jim lived in many places across the United States throughout his life, but Texas was always where his heart belonged. In the late 1980s, he and Esther returned to the Lone Star State, originally to Burnet and then in the early 2000s, settling just outside of Brownwood. There, they created a peaceful home filled with the simple joys of country life-gardening, dogs, cats, and chickens included-making it a place of comfort, warmth, and lasting memories.

Jim is survived by his wife, Esther and son, Drayton, as well as four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his daughter.

A private memorial service will be held by the family.