Jim graduated from Big Spring High School in 1954 and in September 1959 he became married to the former Deby Mofield, in Denver, Colorado. He served in the United Stated Air Force from March 1958 to March 1988 and he obtained his degree from the University of Nebraska - Omaha in 1968.
Jim is survived by wife of 60 years, Deby Stelling, daughter & son-in-law Dee & Ray Parker, son & daughter-in-law John & Sonya Stelling, grandkids Jodi Parker, Jason Parker, Kayleigh Stelling & Ryan Stelling.
A reception for Jim will be held Tuesday, January 14, 2020 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Central Christian Church, 720 North Main Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78205, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.colonialuniversal.com.
From Jim's son, John Stelling:
He was the man I always looked up to, a 6’4” tower with a carrot top. Yosemite Sam in Air Force blue.
He was an example of service to the world, the county, and to our family.
Seeing him in uniform was a moment of pride, even when I had no clue what he actually did.
He gave me a love for history. And still makes me wonder why the Vatican doesn’t rent mechanic’s creepers when going thru the Sistine Chapel.
He was a football coach and a Scout leader when it was needed; I constantly wonder if I could do more for the next generation to repay what he did for me.
He was polite to strangers and friends. Holding a door, saying hello, waving to another car; every day is a chance to brighten the world. Crack a joke, hopefully in good taste – but even cheesy ones can change the world.
Because of him I know that family is a mental state; no distance can break it and no time without talking can diminish it.
He introduced me to fencing, and history, and sarcasm, and more. He instilled a wacked sense of humor and the ability to smile and find wit in the darkest corners. I will not ‘poison pigeons in the park” or ‘hold his hand in mine’ – probably.
He taught me more things that I’ve forgotten than I’ll ever pass to anyone else. I will always wonder if I’m half the example he was.
He taught me faith. The world is divine in every tree, every deer, every kid’s smile. I know that a part of him will be with me always, just like his parents and everyone before him.
He was proud of me too; I know he was because he told me. Even when we fought and argued, he still loved and was proud.
I will never be more than 97% of the man he was…(I’m 6’2, he was 6’4…do the math).
He was my Dad.
Major Jimmie D. Stelling, USAF (Retired)
Oct 16, 1936 – Jan 6, 2020
Facebook will remind me of this every year – and that’s ok.
No one is truly gone as long as they are remembered by those who’s lives they touched.
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