Kenneth L. James

Kenneth Lee James entered eternal rest and met his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 23, 2016. Kenneth was born June 14, 1927 in Cottle County, to Addie Ruth and Gordon Lee James. He graduated from Paducah High School in 1945 and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. After serving his country he graduated from Hardin Simmons University in 1950 with a degree in accounting.

Kenneth married Ella Francene Hart on June 18, 1954, in Lubbock, Texas. Francene was the love of his life and they were happily married for over sixty-one years. Ken and Francene raised three beloved daughters-Jenny James Reeves and Stacy McGinnis, both of Lubbock; and Laurie Lowe of Round Rock. Ken had no biological sons but cherished his sons-in-law, Kevin McGinnis and Randall Lowe. He was considered the patriarch and spiritual leader of a large extended family. Ken was president and owner of Cotey Chemical Corporation when he retired, having spent his career in the business of chemical well rehabilitation and the water well and irrigation industry.

Ken’s Christian faith was an integral part of who He was. He was saved at the age of 17 and his love for the Lord was evident in his walk through life. He was a deacon at First Baptist Church, taught Sunday School and faithfully served on many church committees but his faith was most evident in how he treated those around him. Ken was a man of unwavering character and personal integrity, and he never turned his back on anyone in need. He was a willing and loving father figure to many and mentored numerous Texas Tech students who worked for him at Cotey Chemical. Ken touched the lives of many and left an indelible imprint on the hearts of those who were privileged to call him husband, father, grandfather or friend.

Ken was lovingly known as Papaw to eight grandchildren: Ian Reeves; Kason McGinnis and fiancée Brandi Luck; Claire McGinnis Zumwalt and husband Travis; Grace and Rose McGinnis; Maddie, Olivia and Ava Lowe; and one precious great-granddaughter, Paige Zumwalt.

Visitation is 3-4:30 today, Sunday, March 27th at Resthaven funeral home. Celebration of life services are 1:30, Monday, March 28th at First Baptist Church Lubbock. Memorials may be sent to David Abbott African Missons, c/o First Baptist Church, 2201 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas 79401.

Online condolences may be offered at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com. Arrangements under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Lubbock, TX.