James David Chafin

Jimmy was born on October 25, 1965 in Lubbock, Texas to Kay and Roger Chafin, and grew up in North Dallas, graduating from Trinity Christian Academy in 1984. Jim went on to study fashion at the University of North Texas, putting his incredible artistic talent to work designing gowns for Victor Costa. Jim’s artistic side included a passion for painting, which is reflected in his collection of works he leaves behind.

Despite his promise in the fashion industry, in his mid-20s Jim changed directions by attending University of Texas at Dallas to study Government and Politics, then onto St. Mary’s Law School, where he graduated at the top of his class and practiced law for many years. Jim met the love of his life Jill Kidwell in 2004. Jim and Jill were married in 2005 and spent the rest of his too-short life together in Carrollton, along with their Burmese cats Jilly Cat and Mickie.

In addition to his loving wife Jill and his cats, Jim is survived by his adult children Cameron Chafin and Rachel Foree, his mother Kay Chafin, father Roger Chafin, his siblings Amy Getzoff and husband Tim, Andy Chafin and wife Suzie, and younger brothers Matt and Josh Chafin. As well as Jim and Jill’s beloved nephews and nieces: Sam, Jacob, Sydney, Lauren, Cannon, Carly, James, Jon, Jenna and Brooke.

Jim is preceded in death by his grandparents, Jim and Jean Redman, J. R. and Helen Chafin, and Jim and Jill’s nephew James Buentello.