James M Prothro

James M. Prothro, 93, of Lubbock, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026. Born on January 1, 1933, in Gloster, LA to Hersey Hoyt and Betty Prothro (Deason). Shortly thereafter the family moved to Mansfield, LA, where he excelled academically and athletically on the football field. He was a devoted husband to Lou Prothro and a loving father to Jay (Debra) Prothro of Tomball, TX, and Vickie (Gary) Hix of Lubbock, TX.

James honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he began a distinguished 41-year career with the Lubbock Police Department, serving the City of Lubbock with integrity and dedication. He was a graduate of the FBI National Academy in 1972 and received a BS in Law Enforcement from Wayland Baptist University in 1974 and remained committed to professionalism and public safety throughout his career.

James was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, Fred Deason, brother, Junior Prothro, sisters Martha Stewart, Pansy Blake, and Betty Jean Peterson, and great-granddaughter Hollis Elam. Survivors include a sister, Brenda Mason, granddaughters Brittany (Jordan) Roberts of Wolfforth, TX, Reagan Hix Elam of Plains, TX, Rowan Prothro (Josh Long) of Georgetown, TX, Brooke Prothro of Clute, TX, Nathan and Ambra Mower, Courtney Noble, all of Tomball, TX, Sienna Mikell of Woodleaf, NC, six great-grandsons Cooper and Grayson Roberts, Beckett and Brooks Elam, Julius and Tommy Mikell, two great-granddaughters Gabriella Long and Elektra Mikell.

While walking a beat as a rookie police officer, he met the love of his life, Lou, whom he married on June 6, 1956. Their chance meeting began a beautiful love story that lasted 69 years and became the foundation of a strong and devoted family.

Beyond his career and family life, James embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He was an avid baseball fan, a loyal Texas Tech Red Raiders and LCU Volleyball supporter, and took great pride in cheering on his family in their many sporting endeavors. He also enjoyed driving charter bus tours of senior citizens on over-the-road trips, helping others experience the beauty of the country he loved.

James was known for his fondness of colorful Guayabera shirts, along with his kindness, servant’s heart, and readiness to help anyone in need. His life reflected integrity, faith, and deep compassion for others and he loved BIG!

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will take place from 5 to 7 PM on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Resthaven Funeral Home. Service will take place on Saturday, February 21, 10 AM, in the Resthaven Abbey Chapel.