James Everett Whiteley was born November 12, 1964 in Brownwood, TX to his loving mother, Sandra and his father, Everett. James met the love of his life, Laura, in 2002. They were married on November 6, 2004 and had 17 wonderful years together of fishing, travelling, and enjoying family. Those close to him will remember him for his tender and giving heart and sense of humor.
James knew that the most important thing in the world was God and family. He kept a fervent faith in the Lord and never doubted that God was in control. Even in sickness, his priority was to comfort those around him. He asserted: “I just want you to know, I am going to be okay. Me and God? We’re good!” He encouraged his family to seek and trust the Lord, and he did everything he could to take care of those that he considered family—which was just about everybody. He cared, tirelessly, for his children: Amber Whiteley; Amy Robinson and husband, Joe; Joshua Whiteley; Allen Atkinson and wife, Kindel; Justin Atkinson and wife, Jamee; and Cherish Atkinson and fiancé Zach Catledge. However, he was most proud to be a PaPa to his many grandchildren: Nevaeh, Kristian, Cole, Harley, Logan, Janiya, and Zaniya.
James also knew the importance of the great outdoors and knew how good the open water and a fishing rod could be for the soul. James and Laura would look forward to their trip to the coast each year, and would come back with “big fish” stories and a few souvenirs for the kids. He also knew the importance of work ethic, and he always strove for excellence at whatever he was doing. James worked providing auto parts for his entire career and was superior at what he did. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his job. He loved working for Napa Auto Parts and took pride in working for a company that shared his integrity and attention to detail.
James made an impact on everyone that knew him. His cheerful heart and humorous disposition will stay with us as we say goodbye to our friend who has “gone fishin’.” James is survived by his wife, Laura Whiteley; his parents, Sandra Arnold and Everett Whiteley; his children; grandchildren; and sister, Teresa Crawford and family. He is also survived by aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins, including his dear cousin, Greg Halk. We will miss him tremendously and are comforted by the assurance that we will see him again, sitting on the bank of a lake, fishing with Jesus.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.
Funeral services for James will be held Thursday, October 3, 2019 at 11 AM at the First Baptist Church in May with burial to follow at May Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Wednesday, October 2, 2019 at Davis-Morris Funeral Home.
Online condolences can be left at www.davismorrisfuneralhome.com
