James Gaines

Jame Walter Gaines June 4, 1934- January 8, 2025 In a church bulletin this was said, and it was descriptive of the life of James W. Gaines: “Each of us is building upon a legacy which began with our ancestors and continues with our descendants. Each generation places their stamp upon the name of their kinsmen. As days go by and reputations are built, our family name is either lifted up or trampled underfoot. The Bible makes it clear that our reputations are one of our most valuable assets. ‘A good name is to be more desired than great wealth; favor is better than silver or gold.’ (Proverbs 22:1)” James Walter Gaines was born June 4, 1934, and passed January 8, 2025, living to be 90 years old. He treasured his ancestors and kept track of family through the years. He was the example of a man with a good name and favored by those who knew him and favored by God. James, also known as Pappy to family and friends, worked virtually all his life, starting with his dad at a bee farm after school. He later worked for 15 years at the Hat Factory in Corsicana, then worked 23 years at the Texas Highway Department. His most important and honorable work was the 21 years he preached at the Pursley Church of Christ. Later he enjoyed 34 years of retirement. Although work was important to him, his family was his treasure. James married Dorothy Faye Beldin June 25, 1956, and together they had two sons, James Travis and Steven Lee Gaines. They spent countless moments camping and traveling together while building the principled foundation for life. During his retirement James and Faye (also known as Mimi and Pappy) traveled throughout Arkansas and Missouri enjoying their time together. James was preceded in death by his son, James Travis (Jim), his parents, his three sisters, then his wife Faye in 2015. He is survived by his son, Steven Lee Gaines and wife Robin, their daughters Molly and Sarah and a bonus grandson, Alonzo (Trini) Trinidad Hernandez, all of whom loved him dearly. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who were treasured by James as well. James loved music, singing, and talking. He never met a stranger. His love for people and his example was a clear testament to his love of the Lord. James had a super sense of humor and a gift of making others smile. Even in the harder moments of last several years of life with health and memory struggles, he still had his sharp wit and sense of humor he carried with him his whole life. His love for his family never faded, even as his memories did. His stories and memories will remain with all of those who have heard them repeatedly and now hold them so close to their hearts. Trini, his bonus grandson said, “Pappy was a man of love, strength, storytelling, and a man of the heart. From telling stories from his childhood, or singing songs of praise, to telling the funniest jokes that caught us off guard, he ALWAYS brought happiness and joy no matter where he was. Even in his later stages of life, the joy never left. He was an amazing man and will always be.” Visitation will be 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Tuesday, January 14, 2025, with graveside service to following at 2:00 pm at Oakwood Cemetery with Steve Orbison officiating.

James Gaines

June 4, 1934 - January 8, 2025