James Burt Stites, 82, reunited with his wife Edith on June 16, 2015 peacefully while surrounded by his loving family. James affectionately known as “Pa” is survived by his daughters Kay Hernandez (Joey), Teresa Skinner, Terri Walker (Jr.), Sharon Caesar, Karen Lux (Joe) Mary Odem (Eddie); son, John Stites (Melisa); brother, Charles Stites (Pat); grandchildren, Joey Hernandez, Alanna Hernandez Soto (Andy) and Ariel Hernandez, Little, Abigail, and Ashley Stites, Destiny Lux Lockwood (Blake) and Jacob Lux, Asha Caesar, Allison, Angel, Dakota and Jaiden Odem and host of other family and friends. Pa served our country from 1949 till 1957. After being honorably discharged from the Navy, he began a 40 year career as a Longshoreman at Local #24. Although sometimes the work was hard and he worked long hours, Pa enjoyed being on the waterfront and made many friends throughout the years. As his children, we were proud of the work he chose. Pa was a headstrong man….did things his way and as Ma would say, he was boisterous at times but we always knew how much he loved us. After we started growing up and having our own children, Pa showered his grandchildren with the same undying love. He was always so generous and made sure our Christmases and his grandchildren’s Christmases were magical. Christmas trees and Christmas lights were a must!! In Pa’s older years he loved to draw and he loved to watch his television. Some of his favorite shows were westerns, military shows and his game shows…especially The Price Is Right!!! He also loved his late night snacks!!! Pa was the patriarch of our family and we are going to miss him very much. Only by knowing he and our Mother are now together are we able to get through this. The family wishes to thank Dr. Nusrat Soleja and staff, Dr. Lee Emory and staff, and TheraCare Home Health and nurses Crystal Addison, Leigh Zavora, and Jo Draper for the love and care you gave our Dad for so many years. We will always be so grateful to you. We would also like to thank League City EMS and Clear Lake Hospital and nurse Melissa for the care they gave Pa during his brief illness. The family will receive friends Sunday, June 21, 2015 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Forest Park East Funeral Home. Chapel services will be Monday, June 22, 2015 at 3:30 p.m. with interment following at Forest Park East Cemetery.
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