James Francis Holcomb

August 7, 1943 – December 24, 2019

It is with great sadness that the family of James “Jim” Francis Holcomb announces his passing on Tuesday, December 24, 2019, at the age of 76 years. Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Mary, and his children, Mike and Missy (Cliff). Jim will also be fondly remembered by his three grandchildren, Madeleine, Josephine, and Garrett.

Jim was born in Paducah Texas, on August 7, 1943. His parents earned a living picking cotton. Jim and his older brother were also part of the crew when they were young. When still a toddler, his parents moved to California, where they earned a living picking fruit. They lived in tents, moving from location to location, wherever work was available. Once again, Jim and his brother were part of the work crew. Eventually the family moved to Carlsbad, New Mexico where his father obtained work working in the potash mines.

Jim attended Carlsbad High School where he was a color guard for all the football games. After graduating from high school, Jim obtained a steady occupation working at a Texaco distributing company. Not only did he fill and empty railcar tankers, he drove truck tankers to deliver gas to customers.

Jim was raised in the Calvary Baptist Church in Carlsbad and occasionally delivered a sermon at the little church, planning on entering the ministry one day. Although he was never a pastor, it can be said he lived his ministry every day.

In February 1964, Jim met his future wife, Mary Ruth Freeland, on a blind date. Not excited about the venture, Jim required his friend responsible for the setup to foot the bill for the date. Something must have “clicked” because a week later Jim called Mary and asked if she would like to go get a “coke.” At the drive-in, he asked her if she would also like a hamburger. Mary being considerate of his money, declined, although she would have loved a hamburger! “Well, I think I’ll have one,” said Jim. She learned later he only had enough money for one hamburger!

They continued seeing each other and in April Jim proposed with a beautiful ring set. Mary, a lab technician, drew the blood for the required blood test for the marriage license! On December 12, 1964, they were married in the First Presbyterian Church of Barstow, Texas where Mary’s father, the Rev. J. H. Freeland, was pastor. In 1966 James Michael joined the family, and in 1969 Mary Danette “Missy” made four!

In 1969 the Holcomb family moved to Houston, planning on Jim finishing school at the University of Houston. Unfortunately, it never happened. Jim had manager positions at Sherwin Williams and Napko Paint stores. Then he decided he wanted to make custom jewelry. Although he took some classes, most of his skill was self-taught. He did some beautiful work, like Mary’s wedding set!

Soon after moving to Houston, Jim and family joined St. Giles Presbyterian Church. Jim was soon elected as an officer and served on the session several times, and was on the committee to rewrite the Standard of Procedure. He also taught Sunday school and with Mary, served as Jr. High Youth Fellowship Sponsors.

Jim was a recipient of many God given talents and shared those with all he met!

Jim touched the lives of many people with his smile, sense of humor, kind demeaner, and generosity. Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service on Friday, January 3, 2020, at 2pm at Pathways Church of Houston, 5900 Pinemont Dr, Houston TX 77092.