12 years ago

James Ross Whiteley, 86, of Amarillo died Friday, June 15, 2012.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, June 19, 2012 in Llano Cemetery with Lynn Stephenson officiating. Arrangements were by LaGrone-Blackburn-Shaw Funeral Directors.

James was born March 9, 1926, in Breckenridge to Lottie Beth and Loyd Lorenzo Whiteley. He graduated from Amarillo High School and joined the Army in February 1944, served in World War II and was honorably discharged in October 1945. He married Irma Lee Robinette on Feb. 9, 1946.

He served as a postal clerk for the postal service until retirement. James loved carpentry and woodworking, including building the family home of 52 years. He loved oil-painting and watching westerns. He took great pride in maintaining his house on the corner and loved his dog Abby. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife of 65 years, a brother and two sisters.

Survivors include two daughters, Lou Ann Cleary and husband Mike and Danita Holt, all of Amarillo; two grandchildren, Jeremy Holt and wife Jennifer of Borger and Katie Holt and Justin Roark of Pampa; and four great-grandchildren, Shelby Simpson, Matthew Roark, Logan and Mollie Holt.