James Cameron Stallings

James, also known as ‘Doc’, JC, or Cam, grew up in Breckenridge, Texas. He graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1935. Upon graduation he attended North Texas State University where he received both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in in Chemistry.

He joined the US Navy in 1943 and served in WWII on the USS Sherburne. His ship was in the harbor when the peace treaty with Japan was signed and was able to see the signing of the treaty! He served for 2 years and left active duty in 1945 and joined the naval reserves. He retired of the US Naval Reserves in 1979 as a Lt. Commander.

After leaving active duty, he entered the University of Texas in Austin, pursuing a doctorate in organic chemistry. While at UT, he met the love of his life, Tillie Limmer. Upon receiving his doctorate, he began his lengthy career at Sam Houston State Teachers College. Although he left SHSTC for a short time and moved to Corpus Christi working as a chemist for Celanese. He returned to SHSTC as head of the chemistry department. He also served as the interim Dean of Science and retired after 35 years of service in 1984.

While at Sam, he partnered with Wharton County Junior College to create a program designed to help students desiring a degree in nursing to meet their educational goals maximizing transfer credits.

Following his retirement, a group of students created the J. C. Stallings' Chemical Society, a club for any students who are interested in the subject of chemistry. In addition, the James C. Stallings Scholarship Endowment was also created by his students after his retirement. This scholarship has helped numerous students pursing degrees in chemistry.

Tillie, his wife of 65 years, preceded “Doc” in death. He is survived by his children, Stephanie Hoefar and husband Greg, and Deborah Stallings; grandchildren Kristin and husband Matt, and Jordan and wife Rachael. He also leaves behind very special caregivers: Beverly Wheaton, Robbie Gonzales, and Rena and Ray Crooks.

Per his wishes, a small family funeral service was held March 21st at the National Veterans Cemetery in Houston, Texas where he was laid to rest with a 21 gun salute!

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 2nd, in the Theatre at the Lowman’s Student Center on the Sam Houston State University Campus at 2pm. The family extends an invitation to all to join in the salute to a wonderful man whose life touched so many.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James C. Stallings Scholarship Endowment, Office of University Advancement, Sam Houston State University, Box 2537, Huntsville, TX 77341-2537.