Nancy Salmon James went to be with her partner in life and love of 54 years, Nick H. James, on Valentine's Day, 2013. She spent her final days peacefully at home surrounded by her children and friends and with her beloved terrier, Chico, lying by her side. Her journey of life began on March 2, 1937, as the first child of John Richard and Mary Lou Wendland Salmon in Fort Worth. That journey included a lifelong love of the visual and performing arts and a great sense of adventure that inspired her passion for travel. Her taste for the arts was ignited by her appreciation of all things beautiful, including those that grow from the earth. She could tell you the name of almost any flower and always desired to grow colorful and exotic varieties from all parts of the world. That same love of beauty and color led her to paint, especially in watercolors and play and teach piano for many years. She was a strong financial and service supporter of arts in San Angelo, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Performing Arts Center and the recent Salmon Sculpture Competition. Nancy loved to travel and explore the far flung-corners of the world, with few destinations not on her list, and her desire inspired and often included her family in travels to Europe, South America, Africa and China. Each destination brought a new experience and exposure to the beautiful things of the culture and often resulted in her bringing home an example of the indigenous arts. Her smile was infectious, and she spread her grace, wisdom, compassion and charity to all who knew her. The master of the impromptu happy hour, she loved to surround herself with good friends. Her charitble work included time as a member of the Junior League of San Angelo and as a volunteer for hospice and Meals For The Elderly. She was instrumental in the creation and growth of the Pastoral Care and Counseling Center, now known as West Texas Counseling & Guidance. A lifelong member of First United Methodist Church of San Angelo, she was active in the Morning Glories Bible study and Journey Sunday school class. She was deeply involved in the creation of the church's new prayer garden and columbarium, which will serve as her final resting place next to Nick. She leaves to cherish her memories her brother, Richard Salmon and his wife, Pam, of San Angelo; brother Stephen Salmon of San Angelo; children Mary James of San Angelo, Susan James of Carrollton and Richard James and his wife, Joanna, of Ladera Ranch, Calif.; and grandson Travis James; along with her nieces, Jennifer Pinson and Julie Carcanagues of San Antonio. For family, friends and the many other lives she touched, there will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, at First United Methodist Church. Those wishing to honor Nancy are asked to donate to the San Angelo Performing Arts Center; Wesley Soup Kitchen; West Texas Counseling & Guidance; or the charity of their choice . The family will be welcoming friends to share memories at Nancy's home from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17. Family and friends may sign the online register book at johnsons-funeralhome.com.
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