Jim was born on February 23, 1943 in Abilene, Texas to the late N.J. and Nora (Swindle) Minatra. He attended Abilene Cooper High School. He joined the United States Navy and then served in the United States Army. Jim’s lifelong passion for guns was noted while serving in the Army where he was, “Expert (Rifle)”. He served his country honorably and was a faithful patriot. Jim initially began working with Rhodes Trucking as a diesel mechanic. He went onto own Minatra Mechanic Service in the early 70’s in Abilene. He moved and relocated the business to San Angelo in 1977.
Jim was an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting. He was a gun enthusiast and lifetime member of the NRA. He will be remembered for his love of God, country and family. He was respected by those who knew him. He was loyal, trustworthy, had a great sense of humor and was giving.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Kenneth Leo Minatra and Roger Coy Minatra; son, James Prickett, Jr.; daughter, Donna Eskridge and his granddaughter, Mindy Hagan.
He is survived by his children, Pamela Rae Hagan and her husband David of Clyde, TX, Jimmy Ray Minatra and his wife Peggy of Lewisville, TX and Jeffrey Robert Minatra and his wife Laura of Morgan Mill, TX; 2 grandchildren he raised, Richie Davidson and Janette “Sissy” Minix and her husband Jerry; his grandchildren, Kevin Hagan, Stanton Minatra, Blaine Minatra, Grace Minatra and Abigail Minatra; great-grandchildren, Kathan, Laken and Savana; numerous other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024 from 5-7:00 PM at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home 5701 US Highway 277 S. in Abilene, Texas. A graveside committal service will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 2:00 PM at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery 7457 W Lake Rd, Abilene, TX 79601. Local arrangements are under the care of Johnson's Funeral Home and services under the care of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions in his name can be made to a charity of your choice supporting veterans.
