James Andrew McConnell

James Andrew McConnell of Freeport, Texas, was called to his Heavenly home on March 8, 2021. James was born on July 18, 1959 in Beaumont, Texas, to Cecil Rex McConnell and Bernadette Clara Lyons McConnell.

Jamie, as we all called him, was a man of integrity and kindness; most passionate about any endeavor he pursued whether for pleasure or work. He gave it ‘his all’ in life with his family, friends, and co-workers. He could be counted on to “get it done” and offered help and assistance often without being asked. So many have offered stories of how he impacted their lives through his guidance. Jamie loved his family and enjoyed many family outings with his late wife and children as they grew up and then again as he embarked on a new journey with his new wife and her family. He was so proud of his daughter and son and blessed with the grandchildren they brought into his life. He thoroughly enjoyed being able to share and teach them all the things he loved to do. Jamie was an avid sportsman – fishing, hunting, any kind of water sport. He was a “fixer”, too – if it was broke, he was going to fix it. His career started at the young age of 19, when he signed on with Kellogg Brown & Root. He was a dedicated, quick learner and over the 40 years working in the industry, he excelled and moved up the ranks. He was a leader and a mentor to many. He loved to travel and kept a map of his explorations; was proud to say that he had visited 12 Countries and 24 States. He had so many more adventures he wanted to go on and so many plans for his and Joy’s future. He has been called to his place with the Lord and joins those who will welcome him to his Heavenly life. He will be so missed in our lives.

James was preceded in death by his late wife and mother to his children, Donna Sammons McConnell; his mother, Bernadette Clara Lyons McConnell; sister Elizabeth Ann McConnell Schrader; and stepmother Juanita McConnell.

James is survived by his loving wife, Joy Lynn McConnell, his father Cecil Rex McConnell, son Barrett (Sara) McConnell, daughter Krista (Michael) Musquiz, stepson Jonah Valdez, sister Patricia Lynn Peterson, stepsister Portia Parten, stepbrother Kyle Choate, grandchildren Henley McConnell, Jeremiah Musquiz, Andrew Musquiz, and Logan Musquiz; niece Lindsey (Scott) Falconer, nephew Garrett (Beth) Garner, great nieces Millie, Penelope, and Gemma.

Even though mandates have been lifted, not everyone has yet been able to receive the vaccine. We chose the Lake Jackson Civic Center to allow for social distancing so that everyone will be comfortable attending. Masks are not mandatory but encouraged.