James Earl Killough

Born in Big Spring, Texas, on December 30, 1944, to the late Ollie Mae Killough and Willie Collins Killough, James grew up with a strong sense of duty, hard work, and family. Fresh out of high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and served in the Signal Corps.

On July 6, 1968, James married the love of his life, Rhonda Christine Killough. They shared 58 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership. Together they raised three sons and built a life centered on faith, service, and family.

James’s working life reflected his quiet determination and care for others. He worked for a time as a butcher before becoming Director of Public Works for the City of Dimmitt, Texas. As an EMT, he helped establish the first ambulance service in Castro County. He later owned a small business, served as Assistant City Manager in Edna, Texas, and concluded his career as a code enforcement officer for the City of Taylor, from which he retired.

A man of deep and active faith, James was heavily involved in church throughout his life. He served as a deacon at Lee Street Baptist Church in Dimmitt, First Baptist Church in Edna, and First Baptist Church in Taylor. He was passionate about missions and participated in multiple mission trips to the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, as well as to Mexico and Venezuela.

In his free time he found joy in woodworking—especially building birdhouses that he freely gave away just to bring a smile—fishing, studying history (particularly his own family’s), hunting for arrowheads, and shooting. James never met a stranger. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, yet he also loved to tease and pick on those he cared about most. Above all, his greatest passion and proudest accomplishment was his

family. Those who knew him best will remember him as the finest husband, father, grandfather, and uncle they could ever hope to know.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his sons James Scott Killough and Rodney Jay Killough; and eleven siblings.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Rhonda Christine Killough; his son Nathan Collins Killough; daughters-in-law Terrie Killough and Lyndsae Donde; nine grandchildren—Matthew Killough, Gabriel Alsteen, Dakota Donde, Colton Killough, Kyla Petrilla, Justice Killough, Charles Killough, Aidan Wood-Killough, and Nathan Killough Jr.; granddaughters-in-law Sydney Killough and Raelyn Killough; three great-grandchildren—Landon Wood, Ryah Killough, and Brooks Killough; and a host of nieces and nephews who were blessed by his love and example.

In the hearts of all who knew him, James leaves a legacy of quiet strength, generous service, good-natured teasing, and boundless love for his family and his Lord.

Visitation will be held at Providence Funeral Home, 807 Carlos Parker Blvd NW, Taylor, TX 76574, US, on August 6, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The Funeral Service will take place at First Baptist Church, 2500 Mallard Ln, Taylor, TX 76574, US, on August 7, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Graveside Service will follow at Taylor City Cemetery, E 4th St, Taylor, TX 76574, US, on August 7, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.