James William Hajovsky

James William Hajovsky was born October 15, 1941, in Dayton, Liberty County, Texas, to Stephen Joseph Hajovsky and Annie Dorothy Vyoral. In 1963, he was married to Claudia Jo Phillips. They built a home in Spring Branch in 1967 and have lived in the same home for 56 years. A wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, he triumphed over the hardships of his physical afflictions for more than 25 years without complaint. Even with his physical limitations, his goal was to help other people. He volunteered for years with Stephen Ministry and Disabled in Action Ministry. He served for about 8 years as president of the neighborhood civic club and was well respected by local elected officials and political activists. His favorite organization, for which he was a founding partner, is Spring Spirit, which exists to provide pathways for youth to realize life opportunities through sports, education, and mentoring programs based on Christian principles. When approached by Spring Spirit’s founder, Kenny Baldwin, he quickly became one of Spring Spirit’s strongest advocates. Right from the beginning, he helped build community connections, provided input on the facility, and served on Spring Spirit’s first community engagement team. Because of James, SpringSpirit has been able to make a difference in the lives of over 8,000 youth and sent dozens to college who would have not had that opportunity.

James is survived by his wife of 60 years, Claudia, and 2 beloved children and their wonderful spouses – James Christopher (Chris) Hajovsky and his wife, Carrie; and Karen Denise Hajovsky Gillette and her husband, Chuck. Also survived by 4 amazing granddaughters – Megan Elizabeth Gillette, Makenzie Grace Gillette, Madelyn Claire Hajovsky and Gabrielle (Gabby) Elise Hajovsky. He's also survived by his brother Robert Hajovsky, and nephews, Brad, Scott, and Glen Hajovsky, and 2 brothers-in-law, Bob Phillips (Hanna) and Paul Phillips.

A graveside service for the family was held at Gann Cemetery in Pollok, Texas. A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

For those who wish to remember James in some way, the family is asking for donations in lieu of customary remembrances. Memorial contributions in honor of James William Hajovsky may be directed to Spring Spirit, 8526 Pitner Road, Houston, TX 77080 or made online at www.springspirit.org/donate (note reason for donation in the comments section).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.waltripfuneraldirectors.com for the Hajovsky family.