James Howard Marcontell passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 25th, 2018. He was born April 6th, 1950 in Liberty, TX to Alfred and Zera Lucille Marcontell. At the age of 3 James and his mother found a natural ability that would bring music to everyone's ears for a lifetime - James could play the piano.
He was raised in the Big Thicket with two brothers and one sister. Deep in the woods all the family members from the area shared in daily adventures, forming lifelong bonds living and learning about the land, and enjoying the fruits to be shared.In high school James had quite the academic, as well as athletic, career. He was All District football, played basketball, ran track; was a member of National Honor Society, band, student council, senior play; and was a school paper artist. He was voted most athletic boy and most likely to succeed. Outside school, James helped his father on board row in the oil fields during the summer. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and helped his parents and siblings tend to their fields. James developed his musical talents as an adult to include performing with several bands, including Country Boogie Band and Otis and the Metros. In later years he performed as a solo artist at local venues. While performing was his passion he also developed his skills in carpentry into a business as a contractor working on remodels and new builds of homes and businesses throughout East Texas. Another skill he perfected from taking drafting classes at Tyler Junior College was designing house plans for many of his customers.
He is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Debbie Marcontell of Tyler; son and spouse Eron (Brittany) of Lewisville, TX; brothers and spouses Ed (Betty) Marcontell of Rusk, TX and David (Tammy) Marcontell of Baytown, TX; and sister Sharon Marcontell of Thicket, TX. He is also survived by grandson Jude Gabriel Marcontell.
Funeral service will be 29 October, 2018 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1617 Shiloh Rd, Tyler, TX. at 11am with a visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will be 30 October 2018 at Hall Cemetery, Thicket, TX. at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of East Texas or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Missionary Fund.
