My grandpa Jim died last Tuesday, July 1. Rebecca and I went south to spend time with family and attend his funeral at Bracken Cemetery in East Texas on July 5.
Papa Jim was a good man. He was honest and hardworking. He loved his wife and kids and provided for them — my mom has said many times that she grew up wanting nothing. He served 28 years in the air force, then went back to school and spent many more years as an accountant for SWEPCO. He was interested in history, and more specifically family histories and genealogy. He connected with many people through his research. He spent many years volunteering at the museum in Marshall, TX where he grew up. He liked to tell stories and punctuated many with a hearty and unique laugh. In addition to many photo albums and books of other people’s personal and family histories, he created thick binders full of his own stories and photos spanning decades. These books are fascinating to read and look through and I really hope to get copies of them. He lived a full life. I’m sad that he’s gone. I am glad to have known him.
His name was James and I am proud that my middle name comes from him. I loved him and will miss him.
