James Howard Hesson

James graduated from East Nashville High school. After graduation, James joined the U.S. Army where he served as a tank commander and was awarded a Purple Heart while serving in Vietnam. Mr.Hesson also participated in the Golden Glove of America Boxing Association. He later retired after 22 years of service with the rank of Sergeant First Class. He then continued working for Civil Service at Fort Hood, TX for 20 years as the Range Control Supervisor. Mr. Hesson was also involved in organizations including the Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, and the Scottish Rite Shriners.

On September 20, 1996; James married his wife Donna. In his retirement, James and Donna enjoyed traveling in their camper. Together they went on many adventures and made many memories. They later settled down in Granger, Texas.

In his free time, James loved caring for his pet horse, Brandy; fishing; driving his Dodge truck; and enjoying a refreshing Coors Light along with some crawfish. He was a very strong willed man, yet he had an amazing sense of humor and loved to make others laugh.

Mr. Hesson is preceded in death by his brother Roy, his daughter Cynthia and grandson Wyatt.

James is survived by his loving wife, Donna; son Howard E. Hesson and wife Becky; daughter Clorinda Jean Byers and husband Don; son R. Douglas Bashelor and wife Shawn; and daughter Shannon E. Bilbrey and husband Aaron along with 3 adopted children Andy, Larry, and Leslie. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren; Tiffany, Christopher, Jennifer, Donald, Samantha, Alexandra, Trent, Meagan, Blake, Ashleigh, and Carsyn; 11 great grandchildren; Madison, Sienna, Bryce, Peyton, Ty, Alexes, Mackenzie, Tristan, Emma, Amme, and Adilyn and 1 great great granddaughter; Lily.

A visitation will be held Monday May 11 at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Copperas Cove from 6-8pm. A graveside service will be held at 2pm on Tuesday May 12 at Granger City Cemetery.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to an association to benefit research and care for Diabetes, Arteriosclerosis, or Cystic Fibrosis.