Clarence Homer James

Clarence (Tex) James of Artesia passed away peacefully on 3/20 at the age of 103 surrounded by loved ones. Graveside services were at Woodbine Cemetery. Pastor Bobby Argo of Trinity Temple Assembly of God officiated the service on 3/23.

Tex was born on November 29,1922 in Blanco, OK to the late Boyd and Fannie James. Tex came from a large family with many siblings. Tex was a Jack of all Trades. Throughout his life, he was a rancher, butcher, mechanic, roofer, coast to coast and into Canada truck driver, worked for the City of Artesia for 20 years. Upon retiring from the City of Artesia, he became a door greeter at Walmart for 10 years. He couldn't sit quietly for long, and that job fit him well. He never met a stranger and loved chatting it up with anyone that would listen.

He lived in many states during his life with a few being Texas, California, Utah and more until the late 1980's when he settled permanently in Artesia. Tex married the late Edythe James in Lordsburg, NM. She preceded him in death on June 1, 2016. They had 6 children, Wayne of Artesia (preceded in death in 2010), James of Artesia (preceded in death in 2003). Surviving children are Hobi James of Texas, Alton James of Oklahoma, Kathy Bolen Johnson of Artesia, and Connie Turpin of Artesia. Numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews. Siblings are Ruby Ann Sherman of Texas, Frank James of Georgia, and Harold James of Texas. All other siblings have preceded in death.

He loved to play Dominos and horseshoes along with hunting and fishing. He loved to watch the grandkids-great-great grandkids rodeo. Tex was one of the biggest pranksters in our family. In his last days, he resided with his granddaughter Lahonya who was his caregiver. Before going to live with Lahonya, he lived in his own home where his two daughters Kathy and Connie cared for him for the last 10 years.

Pallbearers were Dalton Sanders, Chance Puckett, Shane Mann, Shawn Lavery, Alex Olvera, and Lynn Reed. Honorary Pallbearers: Christopher Bolen, Richard Rubio, Ronnie Parker, Jimmy Parker, Danny Parker, Quinton Champion, and Miles Puckett.