Melvin "Skip" James, 84, of Valley View, TX passed away on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. He was born in Lawton, OK on March 13, 1938, to W.C. James and Fannie Elizabeth Tilghman.

Melvin married the love of his life Mary Etta Webb on October 18, 1958 in El Centro, CA. He was employed as a pilot, after serving his time in the U.S. Navy and Masonic lodges for over 50 yrs. He was a 32° Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas.

He is survived by his wife Mary James of Valley View, Daughters Terry James Shepard and Tammy James Forsythe, Son Danny and Daughter in law Beth James, Sisters Barbara Perkins (Lenny) and Linda (David) Landers, chosen Brother & Best Friend Jimmy Forest, Brother-in-laws Bill (Lynne) Webb, Bud (Vonda) Webb, Paul (Tami) Todd, Don (Tresea) Todd, Ron (Marlene) Todd, Sister-in-law Bonnie Allen, six grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. Multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins in which he loved.

He was preceded in death by Father- W.C James, Mother- Fannie James, Son- Duane Shepard, Grand Daughter- Shannon Simmons, Brother-in-law- Al Allen, Sister-in-law - Betty Chambers

A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 30, 2022 at the Sanger Cemetery starting at 11:00 AM.
525 McReynolds Rd. Sanger TX 76266

Pallbearers include:
Clinton Shepard
Brandon Shepard
Justin James
Robert Lambert
Paul Todd
Don Todd
Ron Todd

Honorary Pallbearers include:
Jimmy Forrest
Bobby Turney
Mike Sanford

Grandchildren:
Clinton (Jennifer) Shepard
Brandon (Jamie) Shepard
Justin (Casie) James
Kandy Shepard Thurston
Shannon Simmons
Amber (Cole) Cheek

Great-grandchildren:
Coleton, Wyatt, Nicolas, Meghan, Grace, Noah
Austin, Kimber, Sydney
Alex, Logan, Jordan
Hunter, Cason, Olivia
Tristan
Chloe, Lake, Cori

Our Dad lived his life and taught his children the meaning of Morals, Values, and Patriotism. He leaves that legacy to his family.