James William Booth

James grew up in Mendota and graduated from Hamilton High School in 1958. On March 17, 1964 he enlisted into the U.S. Navy where he served 4 years. During that time he received the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. In 1968 he was transferred to the Naval Reserve in Dallas, Texas. He attended Mountain View College and graduated with his Associates Degree in Arts and Science in 1983. He worked for the FAA (Federal Aviation) as an electronic Technician and retired in 2007.

James was an exceptionally intelligent man who enjoyed all kinds of fishing. The last time he was salt water fishing he caught a shark. James also enjoyed reading newspapers, articles and Dilbert comics. He had a green thumb and kept everything beautiful. An avid sports fan he knew something about everything and loved his Dallas Cowboys. James was a hard working handyman who built his own shed. He was always punctual, honest and kind. Being in the Navy he lived his life on a schedule and kept things very organized.

With all the structure in his life James still knew how to have a good time. He was funny and playful with his grandchildren and gave you the benefit of a doubt until you proved him wrong. He was a loving father, grandfather and friend who will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his children: Mary Cathleen Henry, Danny Lee Booth and his wife, Nicky, Joseph Allen Booth; grandchildren: Erika LeeAnne Henry, Meigan Jolynn Booth, Danielle Hernandez and her husband, Jaime, Michael Booth, James Ratliff, Jordan Ratliff; 2 great-grandchildren and cousin Edith Hensley.