James Kenneth Shipley

We are incredibly proud to call James ‘Kenneth’ Shipley our father, and we feel truly blessed to have experienced firsthand the steadfast love he poured into his friends and family. James—known as “Sarge” to colleagues and friends, and affectionately as “Kenny” to those who loved him most—passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, after a life marked by faith, service, and devotion to others. And while our father lived a life filled with many accomplishments, what he was most proud of was his love for God.

Born on May 18, 1939, in Portsmouth, Ohio, James was the second of eleven children born to Elsie Mae Preston and William Richard Shipley. From early on, he carried a deep sense of purpose—one that would guide him through every season of life.

James dedicated over 20 years to the U.S. Military (Air Force), including service in South Vietnam during the war (Tet Offensive era, 1967–1968), and extended tours abroad—6.5 years in France and 7.5 years in Germany. He earned many medals for his service, including the Meritorious Service Medal, a highlight of his distinguished career. His life reflected Scripture’s call to serve with courage and humility, and he answered that call with honor.

After his military service, James continued serving his community with the same discipline and strength. He earned a Degree in Criminal Justice and an Associate Degree in Law Enforcement and Police Administration, then became a trailblazer as the first black supervisor overseeing the Criminal, Civil, and County Courts—including bailiffs and process servers—working closely with judges and court staff.

He served in the 228th District Court, working under Judge Allen Stilley, and later under Judge Ted Poe (who would go on to serve as a U.S. Representative). During his career, James had the privilege of working alongside renowned attorneys. He also served on a U.S. President’s motorcade in Houston and even ran for Harris County Constable, Precinct #5.

Yet, as accomplished as James was, his greatest strength was his heart—and the faith that shaped it. He worked part-time in security for many years, including assignments connected to Neiman Marcus (Precious Jewelry Department) and Zadok Jewelers, often helping coordinate extra-duty work for other officers. He also assisted in authoring a book titled ‘The Cop Who Wouldn’t Quit,’ a fitting reflection of the perseverance he lived out daily. And through it all, he was typically the last one to leave every event at St. Albert’s—leading the monthly bingo and the fish fry—and he never lost his wonderful sense of humor. He could lighten a room with a quick line, a warm smile, or a perfectly timed joke that reminded everyone not to take life too seriously or too lightly.

After decades of leadership in uniform and in the courts, James continued to give back close to home as well, serving his neighbors as President of the West Airport Homeowners Association—another way he quietly showed up for others with steadiness, fairness, and care.

James’ faith was the foundation of his life. A devoted Catholic, he traveled to Israel to deepen his understanding of his faith, became a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus at the Cathedral in Houston, and served as a Chaplain at Southwest Memorial Hermann Hospital for 18 years, under Fr. Enrique—working side-by-side with his fellow volunteers and dear friends at the hospital, supporting one another as they brought comfort and prayer to patients and families—offering hope when people needed it most. His life quietly preached what he believed: that love is shown through service, compassion, and presence. If you asked him what mattered most, he would not point first to medals, titles, or milestones—he would point to God, and to the love he carried for Him.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie Mae Preston and William Richard Shipley; his former wife, Joelle Marie-France Shirley LeSage; two brothers, Richard Arlyn (Betty) and Gerald Lance; one sister, Helen Brenda Morrow; a niece, Tami Sue Shipley; and a nephew, Shawn Michael Wood.

He is survived by his beloved children, whom he was so proud of and whom he faithfully raised after their mother’s tragic passing: Hiram Romuald Shipley of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Veronique Michelle Shipley of Houston, Texas. He is also survived by his brothers Dr. William Maurice (Susie) of Lewis Center, Ohio; Vinson Dale of Canyon Country, California; Juan Jerome (Lynn) of Portsmouth, Ohio; and his sisters Judith Kay Smith of Portsmouth, Ohio; Maria Denise Bowen (Jesse) of Columbus, Ohio; Rose Ann Patterson of Aurora, Illinois; and Aletha Mae of Westerville, Ohio; as well as his sister-in-law Betty Jean of Aurora, Illinois.

To James’ many friends and extended family: thank you for being a constant source of love in his life. He truly loved each and every one of you—you made his life rich, his days meaningful, and his heart full. And to his St. Albert’s family, he carried a special love for the friends who prayed with him, served alongside him, laughed with him, and made that community feel like home. We are comforted in knowing that the God he served so faithfully has now called him home, and we pray for the peace Christ promises: “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”

May we honor James Kenneth Shipley by living with the same faith, integrity, and love he so freely gave. Please keep our family in your prayers, and may his memory be eternal.

In Kenneth’s sweet words: “Keep smiling.”

A visitation will be held at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, located at 12555 South Kirkwood Road in Stafford, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Funeral Mass will take place at St. Albert Catholic Church, 11027 S. Gessner Road in Houston, on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11:00 am.

Immediately following the Funeral Mass, all are invited to greet the family during a reception a to be held at St. Albert Catholic Church.