James "Jim" J. Savage

James Savage, a native Houstonian, and long-time resident of both Houston and Morgan City, Louisiana, passed away on the 6th of July 2016 at the age of 53 surrounded by family. In his younger years, Jim was an excellent marksman, avid hunter, cowboy, and rancher. Always on the go, Jimmy was very athletic: football in high school, water skiing in the bayou, and any new activity that he could find. While attending Texas A&M University, he was injured in 1982 but retained his interest in guns and sharp things becoming an authority on firearms and weaponry.

Jim was an inspiration to all who knew him. Undaunted by becoming a quadriplegic, he went on to complete his studies at the University of Houston, earning a BBA in Finance. He rose to the challenge of completing a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctor of Jurisprudence, also from the University Houston. He reached out to other handicapped people, helping them whenever he could. He greatly enjoyed his college years and gained many treasured friends from around the world. Jim’s basic Spanish became fluent during that time and he loved to practice with his friends from Spain, Argentina, Bolivia, Mexico and other Latin countries. Often, the discussions encompassed wine, food or soccer competitions. His recipe for paella won accolades in a local contest.

An intrepid traveler, Jim made trips to many countries, including Yugoslavia, Spain, England, France, Argentina, Mexico and China. He enjoyed the people, the culture and the history of the places he visited. He made good memories and good friends on his travels; they became his extended family. His spirit and humor were infectious: the phrase "a stranger is just a friend you haven't met yet" fit Jim perfectly.

Jim served as an attorney in the Harris County District Attorney’s office for 17 years, rising to become the Director of Legal Counsel for the Harris County Sheriff's office. He was honored to work with the Sheriffs, Constables and his colleagues on a daily basis. He was interested in varied aspects of the law and quick to help friends, acquaintances, and interns.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, William F. Savage; brother, William Savage II; and nephew, John Hillyer II. He is survived by his mother, Carrie Bludworth Savage; and his siblings, Susan Thompson and husband James of Houston, Nancy Thompson of Boise, Idaho, Elaine Savage of Houston, Jenny Savage of Houston, Pauline Robertson of Baton Rouge, and Cheryl Robertson of Baton Rouge. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Lauren Miller and husband Jason, Parker Thompson, Lily Thompson, H. Platt Thompson III, and Kimberly Hillyer.

The family will be receiving friends beginning at three o’clock in the afternoon on Wednesday, the 13th of July 2016, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston, where the memorial service is to commence at half-past three o’clock in the afternoon. Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family and share remembrances of Jim, during a reception in the adjacent grand foyer.

In lieu of customary remembrances, donations may be made to the James J. Savage Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Foundation, 5667 Willers Way Ct., Houston, TX 77056.