James Lewis Albright IV

James Lewis Albright, known to friends as “Jim,” entered this world on January 27th, 1945 and transitioned to his eternal home on January 12, 2025. Born the oldest child to James and Gloria (Kocurek) Albright in Houston, Texas, James spent many hours as a child outside at his grandparents’ property in Dimebox, camping with his family, helping build a cabin from the ground-up on Lake Bonanza, and generally delighting in beating both his siblings at Monopoly, cards or dominoes.

After graduating from St. Thomas High School in 1963, James attended Sam Houston State University. Having joined the United States Army during the Vietnam War era, James served his county both domestically and abroad in Europe. Following his years of service to his country in the military, James solidified his career as a draftsman with S&B Engineers and Constructors, retiring after 46 years of dedication. Through family and friends, James met the love of his life, Anne Cobb Frewin, and the son of his heart, Greg, in Hockley, Texas in 1971.

After marrying in 1976, James and Anne shared nearly 49 years of laughter, partnership and love. As a tight-knit family, the Albright 3 traveled and had many adventures together, doing everything from snorkeling in the islands to helicopter-hiking in Canada. Life for James, Anne and Greg centered around the haven of family, and their home was the loving anchor to many family members and friends. In 1993, James adopted a second child under his parenting wing, his daughter-in-law Erin, and would eventually go on to become the proudest Papa ever to his fellow mischief-maker and grandson, Evan.

A true Renaissance man and avid reader, James could paint, draw, build, woodwork, cook, design, craft and create almost anything imaginable. Anything he did not yet have mastery of, he could teach himself in a matter of hours. A man of genuine integrity with a keen mind that was unmatched, James will forever be remembered for his quiet strength, razor-sharp witticisms, and true generosity. The void his presence leaves is exceeded only by the legacy and impact his life of honor leaves behind.

James was preceded in death by his daughter Dawn, his parents James and Gloria, and his in-laws T.L. and Margaret.

James is survived by his loving wife Anne; his beloved siblings Pat/Cindy and Linda/Skip; his children Greg and Erin; his grandson Evan; his nephew Stephen, wife Amy, and great nephews Caleb and Carson, his nephew Michael, his nephew Patrick, his great-niece Claira, his great nephew Liam, as well as numerous, cherished siblings-in-law, cousins and extended family members.

Those who want to honor the life of James are encouraged to consider a donation to St. Matthias the Apostle Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Counsel 11866 in Magnolia, Texas, or your local library.

Those wishing to attend services for James are invited to attend the following at St. Matthias Catholic Church of Magnolia on Saturday, January 18th: 11am (Visitation), 11:45am (Rosary), and 12:30pm Funeral Mass. A private burial will follow, respectfully requested for family only.