James Edwin Finley

of Allen, Texas. James passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, in Allen. He was born on March 19, 1931, in Levelland, Texas, to Thomas E. Finley and Jewel Hinds Finley.

James grew up in Levelland, the youngest of three children, and graduated from high school in 1948. He then attended Texas Tech University, in Lubbock, Texas, where he received a B.B.A. in Business Management in 1952. He served in the U. S. Navy during the Korean War from 1952 to 1955, and later served as Lieutenant in the U. S. Navy Reserve until 1965.

While attending Texas Tech, James met Eva McCright, and the two were married on March 7, 1954. They enjoyed a full and happy life together for 69 years until Eva’s passing in 2023. They raised two children: Rhena, born in 1956, and Randal, born in 1958.

James retired after 30 years with the Internal Revenue Service, and then served as County Auditor for Van Zandt County for 5 years. He and Eva also grew a successful health and nutrition business through the Shaklee Corporation. They were longtime members of Teel Church of Christ in Canton, Texas.

James was a kind and patient man who enjoyed working outdoors, tending his large garden, camping trips in Colorado, and fly fishing. He especially enjoyed resting with a good book after a busy day, and devoted countless hours of study in the Word of God.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Jewel Finley; wife, Eva Finley; and son, Randal Finley.

He is remembered fondly by his family: daughter, Rhena Lang and husband, Jeff of Richardson, Texas; grandson, Andy Lang and wife, Anne of Starkville, Mississippi; grandson, Todd Lang of Aubrey, Texas; great-granddaughter, Margaret Lang; great-grandson, Jamie Lang, both of Starkville, Mississippi; and a host of friends and relatives.

Interment will be at Haven of Memories Memorial Park in Canton, Texas.

Memorial donations can be made in James’ honor to AmeriCaring Hands, LLC; 419 Wolverley Lane; Allen, Texas; 75002; www.americaringhands.com