James Ray Suter

James Ray Suter, age 66, of Hockley, Texas passed away at his home alongside family on Friday, April 14, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Joan Suter, and his sister/brother-in-law, Rhonda and Wendell Copeland. Also mourning his loss are his children/step-children/in-laws/nieces/nephews/grandchildren: Megan and Braden Wittington (Eleonore & Theodore); Logan and Madison Suter (Parker & Pace); Katelin Suter; Thomas and Christina Allen (Caroline, Tommy, & Mary Hays); George and Allison Allen (Annie); Sarah and Andrew Dailey (James, Luke, & Sam); James and Amanda Wilson (Taylor & Blake); Michael and Amanda Marie Wilson (Ellery & Kael).

Jim was born in Kansas City, MO on March 26, 1957, to Lyle Edward Suter and Marian Ruth Suter. He spent his early years in Enid, OK participating in various sports like football, golf, baseball, and basketball. He graduated high school in 1975 from Enid High School. He later went on to attend college at South Western Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, OK and graduated with a degree in business management in 1979.

His professional career began with Conoco Inc. in Hennessey, OK in 1980 at a natural gas processing plant. Throughout the next several decades he held many positions and worked his way through the ranks of ConocoPhillips in both Oklahoma and Texas. His legacy still lives on today through the creation and implementation of the Lower 48 Measurement Council as well as numerous measurement policies and procedures. He retired from ConocoPhillips in 2015 after a successful 35-year career with the company.

Jim held many titles in his life, but his favorite role was being a father, and later a grandfather and PePaw. He loved nothing more than spending evenings and weekends supporting his kids and attending their events. Some of his most cherished memories were spent under Friday Night Lights cheering on his children through football, cheerleading, and drill team, and he reminisced about these times often. His dedication and support continued to grow with his grandchildren and great nieces and nephews. His unwavering support and thoughtful advice will be one of the many things missed about him.

In 2011 Jim married Joan and together they purchased property in Hockley, TX, self-proclaimed The Lazy J. Since then, they worked to create a place of sanctuary for family and friends. There was always a project going on, from planting orchards, trimming trees, and painting fences. Jim enjoyed watching grandchildren make memories at The Lazy J fishing, swimming, and much more. One of his favorite things to do at The Lazy J, was to share his love of Classic Rock music with any, and all who would listen.

Jim’s hobbies and pastimes included spending time with family and friends, riding Harley Davidsons, betting on live horse racing, and making frequent trips to Delta Downs Casino. He was an avid sports fan, who loved watching the Houston Astros, NASCAR, Professional and college football, and golf. He also had a passion for working outdoors, mowing, landscaping, and general preventative and corrective maintenance.

Jim battled cancer for many years, and his determination and sacrifice were truly awe-inspiring. We would like to thank Dr. Paul G. Corn, and Dr. John C. Araujo, for their steadfast care and for never giving up on Jim. In lieu of flowers, donations to MD Anderson Cancer Center, in Jim’s honor are appreciated.

Jim will be deeply missed by all! Please join us in celebrating his life at 2pm on April 22, 2023, at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Fwy., Houston, TX 77079.

*Reception to follow, information provided at the Celebration of Life*