James was born on November 25, 1949, to Elias Arredondo and Aurora Luna Arredondo in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Jeff Davis High School in 1969. He served in the United States Army from June 18, 1970, to January 24, 1972, after which he returned to Houston, Texas, where he married Eileen Marie Arredondo on November 5, 1983. Together, they raised four children and six grandchildren.
James is survived by his children, Stephanie Escobar, James Arredondo, Jennifer Arredondo, and Jessica Arredondo, as well as his grandchildren, Brianna Salazar, Hayden Maldonado, Mariah Escobar, Lauren Escobar, Alexander Escobar, and Cameron Escobar. His daughters spouses Jorge Escobar, Jesse Maldonado, and Christian Ocampo. He also leaves behind his beloved siblings, Cynthia Diedrich and Sylvia Arredondo, and several nieces and nephews.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Eileen Arredondo, his father, Elias Arredondo, his mother, Aurora Arredondo, his brothers, Dennis Arredondo and Gabriel Arredondo, and his little sister, Sophia Arredondo.
James served the city of Houston as a Houston Firefighter, with the final rank of Communications Captain, for 34 years, 4 months, and 6 days. He was a big fan of Houston Rockets, Astros, and Texans, an avid Star Wars fan, Star Trek fan, and loved Classic Rock. He also had a beloved dog named Captain Arredondo that never left his side. A viewing is scheduled for Friday, March 22, 2024, from 5:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m at Forest Park Lawndale in the main chapel. The funeral and burial service will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 11:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m at the same location. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Jennifer Arredondo for her dedication to being James’ caretaker for the last chapter of his life.
