James Franklin Soward

James Soward was born on April 15, 1953, in Fairbanks, Alaska, at Ladd Air Force Base. He died at home in Austin, Texas, on May 25th, 2024. James spent his early childhood in Kingsville Texas. When he was 13, the family moved to La Porte, Texas, where he graduated from high school. He enjoyed playing football and participating in the excellent La Porte High School theater programs, making many lifelong friends.

After attending Lon Morris College and San Jacinto Jr. College, James married Janie Morrow in La Porte, Texas. He worked in various sales positions, eventually settling in Austin Texas where he enjoyed the live music scene, all things sports, especially Longhorn football, in large part due to both his parents being graduates of The University of Texas.

James was blessed with many wonderful friends who loved him for his welcoming smile, kind heart and good humor. He maintained many of his relationships throughout his life, such as, the friendship with Jay Martin which began as infants with their birthdays three months apart and proceeded throughout their lives as best friends.

James was survived by his Mother, Irma Deane Soward, Austin, Texas; Brother, Stephen Soward (Jaye Lynne) Austin, Texas; Brother, Daniel Soward (Tina), Ft, Worth, Texas; Nieces and Nephews: Siobhan Soward, Norfolk, VA; Marie Sofijczuk (Scott), Dallas, Texas; Arri Morris, San Diego, CA; Adrienne Morris, Austin, Texas; Ronnie De Leon (Irene), Ft. Worth, Texas; Rita Jones (Jason), Ft, Worth, Texas, and many cherished and loving cousins.

In lieu of Flowers the family would like donations to be sent to a charity that James passionately believed in called First Tee Austin. Or the American Heart Association. See links below.

First Tee, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering kids and teens through the game of golf. Please make donations to: firstteeaustin.org

American Heart Association: Please make donations to:https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give-aha?form=FUNQCSERKQD