James Scott Standifer

James Scott Standifer, age 76, passed away on January 7, 2026, in Richardson, Texas. He was born on August 19, 1949, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to John and Jo Ceal Goforth Standifer, and was raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. Jim graduated from W. B. Ray High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education from The University of Texas at Austin in 1975.

Jim devoted more than 30 years to teaching in Texas public schools, where he was especially passionate about working with special needs children. Most recently, he taught at Universal Academy in Irving.

In his spare time, Jim most enjoyed being with friends and family. He read the Bible daily and was known for his kind, compassionate heart. His family and friends will always remember him as a selfless and loving person who, despite the challenges of living with autism, graduated from college, dedicated his life to teaching special needs children, and lived the Golden Rule every day. He especially loved the holiday season—and its desserts. No pie was ever safe around him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jo Ceal Standifer.

He is survived by his brother, Bill Standifer, and wife Valerie; nieces Elizabeth Charters and Susan Garfield; and two great-nieces, Ainsley and Mabel Garfield.