James "Honey" Snyder Futrell

James was youngest and last surviving of eight children born to Sam Manson Futrell and wife Mary King Campbell Futrell, who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death are his brothers and sisters: Sam Futrell, Carrie Futrell Bradford, Catherine Futrell Wilkins, Leroy Futrell, Anita Futrell Webb, Genevieve Futrell Younger and John Robert Grady “Jack” Futrell.

James is survived by his wife of 30 years, Martha Nell Paschall Futrell and her children: Allan Layne and wife Gladys, Paul Layne and Amy Layne Rodgers and husband Jim; His first wife, Eunice Wheat Futrell and their three children James David Futrell and wife Debby, Mary Katharine Futrell Jovicich and husband Stan, John Wheat Futrell and wife Sherry, Grandchildren, David Chad Futrell and wife Jennifer, Chelsie Elise Futrell Rosser and husband Tim, Katharine King Jovicich, John Adam Jovicich, James Henry Jovicich, Autumn Renee Futrell, Zoe Lee Futrell, and Steven Campbell Futrell, Great Grandchildren Dylan Ryan Rosser and Cason Layne Rosser. He is also survived by many dear nieces and nephews.

James was born in Mesquite, attended Mesquite schools, graduated in the Class of 1949 and was known as the “Smile King” in the yearbook of 1949. He was active in sports, playing varsity football and basketball. He also participated in the FHA, receiving a blue ribbon in the fair with his Hereford steer. He attended Fist Baptist of Mesquite where he was active in the youth program. As a young man with a willingness and need to work, James was hired by prominent men of the community who were role models to him. James was affectionately known as “Honey”, a nickname given by his aunt, and he was known all over Mesquite by that name.

Following graduation, James enlisted in the United States Navy, along with several of his friends. They left by rail from the Dallas Depot with family and friends waving goodbye with tears in their eyes. His first assignment was aboard the USS Floyd B. Parks Destroyer, touring the Pacific during the Korean War. Given leave while in the port of Nagasaki, he shopped for beautiful items to send home to family and friends which many admire to this day. Later, James was assigned duty to the Admiral’s crew in San Diego. He was very proud of this coveted assignment and told numerous stories about this post. James was honorably discharged from the Navy on October 27, 1954. Many years later he attended several reunions for the surviving crew members of the USS Floyd B. Parks.

James Snyder Futrell and Eunice Faye Wheat Futrell were married at First Baptist of Mesquite on October 24, 1953. After working for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for a brief time, James’ father-in-law, a furniture merchant and auctioneer, convinced him to go into the business. He accepted, and owned and operated Snyder Furniture on Ross Avenue for over 50 years. A man who enjoyed the company of people from all walks of life, James had many loyal customers and multi generations of families who traded with him for years. He sold the store to his youngest son, John Futrell in 2000, and continued to work for him another 16 years.

An outdoorsman, James looked forward to joining family and friends to hunt deer in east and south Texas or elk in Colorado and fish on the Texas coast. This past summer a Futrell reunion was held in his honor. Many nephews and nieces attended and reminisced with their beloved uncle.

James and Martha Nell Paschall were married on March 12, 1989 and James gained another family who welcomed him with open arms. He loved to cook and he and Martha hosted many Sunday afternoon dinners for both families, where he served his famous brisket. James loved all his children and grandchildren and loved to watch them have fun in the pool, or playing games. He had an infectious laugh and a way of making anyone and everyone feel special. He was an outgoing, kind and compassionate person who will be missed by all who knew him.

Pallbearers are Chad Futrell, John Adam Jovicich, James Henry Jovicich, Mike Webb, Greg Futrell, John Wilkins, Stan Jovicich and Paul Layne.

Donations may be given the Mesquite Veteran’s Memorial Fund

Mesquite Veterans Memorial, c/o Communications and Marketing Department, City of Mesquite, Municipal Center, 1515 N. Galloway Avenue, Mesquite, TX 75149.