Charles Richard James, Jr. was born September 23, 1936 in Houston, TX and entered into eternal rest November 26, 2016. The son of Charles and Mary James, Richard was raised in The Heights and was a lifelong resident of Houston.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Mary Catherine Michalec. He is survived by his wife Drena James; children, Joel James, Michael Hillman, and Jessica James Dean and husband Francisco Dean; grandson, Brady Hillman; nephews and niece, Steve Michalec , Kevin Michalec, and Karen Goolsbee; numerous friends and relatives.
In his early years Richard attended All Saints Catholic School where he served as an altar boy at All Saints Catholic Church. After graduating from St. Thomas High School in 1954, he attended The University of Texas. In 1960, he joined the U.S Army.
After serving in the Army, he began his career in the steel business in 1962 for Schill Steel Company where he worked until 1983 as GM for the company. He then worked for Macsteel Company from 1989 to 2009 as sales manager. Both companies were steel service centers serving the oil patch and many Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Oklahoma metals industries. He not only took pride in his career, but truly relished the friends he made during his time with the steel industry. Richard was not only a dedicated businessman but was devoted to his family.
Richard was involved with the All Saints Church Community, serving in the Funeral Ministry, Eucharistic Ministry, Pastoral Council, and Knights of Columbus. His hobbies included gardening, fishing, bowling, and coaching youth sports. He was an avid University of Texas longhorn fan (“Hook ‘em horns”).
Richard touched many hearts and lives and will be greatly missed by all.
In loving memory of Richard, donations may be made to Help Lauren Learn at www.helplaurenlearn.net.
Floral deliveries should be made to Heights Funeral Home (1317 Heights Blvd., Houston, TX 77008) by 2:00 PM Wednesday.
Arrangements under the direction of Heights Funeral Home, Houston, TX.
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