James Leslie Hurse

A proud graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, James was recognized as a gifted child even from an early age. He excelled in talented and gifted courses throughout his education. James also had a passion for music, being a dedicated member of the Variations show choir in high school, and his love for Superman was well-known to his friends and family.

James’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. James accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized as a child at Mt Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. He spent many years ministering through music as a member of the choir. James’s voice often brought comfort and joy to those around him. Although he did not hold membership within a church at the time of his death, let there not be any doubt that James both loved the Lord and had a relationship with our savior Jesus Christ. He never failed to welcome an opportunity to use his voice or other resources to minister to those in need, be it stranger or friend. Always offering an encouraging word from the Lord to help them along.

Although karaoke was one of his favorite pastimes, he could often be heard singing at work or along the route as he travelled home. James was an avid football fan, dividing his love between the Texas Longhorns and Michigan Wolverines. Like many of us he remembered and often longed for the good days of his favorite NFL team, the Dallas Cowboys.

James enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Registered Sleep Technologist, having worked for more than 15 years at Sleep Medicine Associates of Texas. His compassion for others led him to serve as a sleep technician for children at Children’s Health, where he made a lasting impact on the lives of many.

James was preceded in death by his father, James Ragland; Grandparents Elbert H & Lillie B Hurse; Uncles Jessie L Hurse and Elbert H Hurse Jr.

He is survived by his beloved mother, Ernestine Hurse; his siblings, Myles (Nichole) Ragland, Clarice (John) Clopton and Joshua Jackson; Eight nieces, five nephews; and a host of extended family and friends who will cherish his memory and miss him dearly. James will be remembered for his intelligence, his warm heart, and his unwavering dedication to helping others. He will forever be in the hearts of those who knew him.

A visitation will be held in his honor on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Singing Hills Funeral Home, 6221 University Hills Blvd, Dallas, TX 75241. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Marsalis Avenue Missionary Baptist Church, 2723 S Marsalis Ave, Dallas, TX 75216.

The family would like to express sincere appreciation and gratitude to Pastor Terry White and the Marsalis Avenue Baptist Church family, the ICU staff of Baylor Hospital in Plano, our extended family, and countless friends for their acts of sympathy shown during our time of bereavement.