James Arlis Avery of Austin, Texas, graduated to his eternal home on Monday, May 27, 2024, in Austin, Texas. Arlis was born to Father Willis Avery and Mother Irene Sexton Avery, on May 9, 1937, in Onapa, Oklahoma.
From an early age, Arlis was taught about Jesus and would spend his life serving his Savior. As a teenager, he learned to play the guitar, which began his love for southern gospel music. In 1963, Arlis married the love of his life, Gayle Thompson. Gayle became the perfect companion to his life and ministry. Together, they would make a great impact on countless lives. As a young man, Arlis joined The Premier's Quartet and traveled across the country, singing about Jesus and sharing the love of God through his music. Many wonderful friendships were gained along the way, and many wonderful memories were made. In 1980, Arlis received a call to fill in as pastor at Hornsby Bend Assembly of God. He would spend the next 32 years serving as the Senior Pastor there. Over the years, Arlis and Gayle touched many lives as Pastors.
Arlis is preceded in death by his father, Willis Avery, mother, Irene Avery, his son, Rodney Avery, and daughter, Regina Avery.
He is survived by his wife, Gayle Thompson Avery, son Mylon and his wife, Kathy Avery; granddaughters Jennifer Pittman and her husband Terry, and Ashley Avery; grandsons Rodney Avery Jr. and his wife Megan; Jeremy Avery and his girlfriend Heather, Christopher Avery and his wife Megan, Joshua Avery and his wife Jessica, Joseph Avery and his wife Tanisha, Corey Avery and his fiancé Martha; as well as 21 great grandkids. He is also survived by his brother, Dean Avery, and his wife, Billy, along with numerous family and friends.
The Visitation will be held on Monday, June 3, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, 14501 North Ih-35, Pflugerville, TX 78660. The funeral service will occur at 11 AM Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at the same location, followed by the committal at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Cemetery.
