James Neel Mann, husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away on Thursday September 25, 2025, at the age of 83. A visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM, Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Heartland Funeral Home in Early, Texas.
James was born on December 18, 1941, in Olney, Texas, the son of William Vincent Mann and Laura Pauline Read Mann. He was raised in Newark, Texas. A 1960 graduate of Boyd High School, James went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army. Following his military service, he returned home to Fort Worth, Texas, where he began a long and respected career in metal fabrication and small business ownership in Brownwood, Texas. Known for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship, James took pride in his trade and the relationships he built throughout his working life. He retired in 2004. His passion for cruising took him from the Caribbean to Alaska, looking forward to each new adventure. James cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, always looking forward to holidays and special occasions. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in his time spent on the lake boating and fishing.
James is survived by his wife, Delores; children, Leslie Zander, Darrin & Suzanne Mann, and Byran & Kim Mann; his grandchildren Ryan, Hailey, Augustus and Katherine; siblings, Wanda Cooksey, Loy Mann, and Read Mann; 9 nieces and nephews and many friends.
James was preceded in death by his sister, Bobbie Pike. He will be deeply missed by all whose life he touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of their choice.
Online condolences can be shared with family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net
