James "Jimmy" F. Broyles Jr.

Jimmy was born November 18, 1924, and lived an extraordinary life filled with adventure, resilience, unwavering integrity and love for God and his family. His parents managed a traveling tent circus at the time of his birth. Jimmy’s early years were nothing short of remarkable. His father famously wrestled a bear in the circus. Jimmy’s childhood was equally adventurous. His best friend from the menagerie of circus animals was a playful monkey who proved to be a loyal companion and provided hours of entertainment. Surviving a bout of typhoid fever in his youth, he later traveled across Texas with his family, who had sold the circus and purchased a traveling silent movie business. He grew up on the road, changing schools every few days. Before High School graduation, he had attended over 100 different schools across Texas.

At 18, Jimmy answered the call to serve his country, joining the Army during World War II. His service took him to New Caledonia, New Guinea, New Zealand, Japan, and the Philippines. During his final tour, he battled and survived malaria, once again proving his remarkable resilience. He was honorably discharged at the end of the war and returned home to Junction, Texas. He later served one tour in the National Guard. He married the love of his life, Helen Bruce on July 17, 1946. In 1948 he earned his pilot’s license for single engine land. He and Helen built a beautiful life for themselves and their three children. He moved his family to San Angelo in 1960, to start an Enco service station business. Jimmy dedicated over 50 years to the service station industry, earning the respect of his community through his honesty, integrity, and hard work. In 1966, he was awarded “Manager of the Year” for the Western Region including West Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. In the 1970s, he served as director for “The Texas Service Station Association” and one term as President. He worked full time until the age of 78 when he decided to retire.

After Helen’s passing in 2006, Jimmy found renewed purpose through volunteer work at Community Hospital, where he served for 14 years and was honored as Volunteer of the Year in 2016. During his time as volunteer, he met a wonderful woman, Ann Helm, who he lovingly referred to as “Little Red.” They enjoyed many hours of companionship and a shared love of sports.

His passions extended beyond service. He was a talented musician and singer who played the guitar and piano, filling his home with music throughout his lifetime. His family’s favorite memories will definitely include the hours of “Sing Along With Papa!”

Jimmy’s strength and determination were legendary. Well into his 90s, he remained active, training at the gym owned by his grandson, who also served as his personal trainer. At 96, he could still dead lift 180 pounds and knock out chin ups with the best of them. He also enjoyed being part of a weekly bowling league pausing his activities only due to the COVID-19 shutdowns.

A man of kindness and gentle spirit, Jimmy was known for his honesty and unwavering dedication to family. He passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by those who love and cherish him, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. He is survived by his three children, Jim Broyles, Gailon Huseman and husband Ted, and Kim James and husband Charles, eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry his legacy forward. He is preceded in death by his wife, Helen, and one grandchild. Jimmy’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and power of the human spirit. His journey from a circus childhood to serving in World War II, and his enduring commitment to family and community, paints a portrait of a man who has lived fully and loved deeply. He leaves behind a story worth telling for generations to come.

Visitation for Jimmy will be held on Friday, March 28th from 3-7PM at Johnson’s Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 10 AM on Saturday March 29th at Belvedere Cemetery, 3504 Arden Rd, San Angelo with Pastor Rick Green officiating.

Jimmy’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Home Instead for their love, support and caring for their father that enabled him to continue to live safely and comfortably at home. The family would also like to extend their gratitude for the support and care of Hospice of San Angelo.