Jim was born in Phoenix, Arizona on July 12th, 1943 to Jasper and Julia Porter. He met his wife, Barbara Kaylor, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. They were married on February 3rd, 1963. He received his B.A. in English from Grand Canyon College in 1970.
Jim was a devoted family man, but above all, he was a Christian, having served variously as a pastor, music director, and Bible teacher. As a husband, he was faithful and loving to Barbara. He was her greatest encouragement and confidant. They prayed together, read Scripture together, and raised a family together. As a father, he was an excellent role model for his children, many of whom have children of their own now. His love for family was obvious in that he welcomed his children’s families and loved ones as family.
A voracious reader, Jim possessed a wealth of knowledge on a wide variety of subjects. A descendent of Kiowa orators and storytellers, Jim could effectively communicate that knowledge in a compelling way. He was intelligent, witty, sarcastic, humorous and engaging. His disarming personality made everyone immediately comfortable talking with him. As a writer, over the years Jim wrote a multitude of articles, curricula, and often edited books. As a lay theologian, his greatest passion was the study of Scripture and teaching it. As a one-time musician, he held a love of a wide variety of music. He could be heard listening to Classical music one moment, Disco another, and Tejana music in another.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Barbara Porter, his sons and daughter, James Porter, Richard Porter, Brian Porter, Michael Porter, Jesse Porter, and Melody Porter.
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