James Ray Whitaker

Graveside services for James Ray Whitaker, 66,of Nacogdoches, will be 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at Redland Cemetery in Cushing, Texas with Pastor Toby Self officiating. James Ray Whitaker was born on January 7, 1954 to Joann and Sherman Whitaker.  James passed peacefully to heaven on December 20, 2020.  James is survived by his son, James Whitaker, his daughter, Katie Whitaker, his mother Joann Whitaker, his sister Cherlyn Whitaker, his brother Kevin Whitaker, and his loyal companion, his dog Rio. He is predeceased by his father, Sherman Whitaker. He is also survived by dear friends of many years. James grew up in Houston, Texas and moved to Longview in 1970.  He attended Pine Tree High School where he excelled in baseball. James graduated from Pine Tree High School in 1972. He also played American Legion Baseball. James graduated from the University of Houston in 1976 with a business degree and began his career in sales. He never met a stranger and his ability to talk with people served him well throughout his career. He lived in the Houston area until his retirement a few years ago when he relocated to Galveston.  James was a lifelong Houston Astros fan who enjoyed discussing facts and stats about them with friends. He was also a devoted University of Houston Cougar basketball fan, especially during the Phi Slama Jama era. James was an accomplished sailor who enjoyed working on and sailing his boat and an excellent carpenter who built a beautiful swing set and playhouse for his children when they were young and beautiful decks for their backyard. James will be missed dearly by his family and friends but we find great comfort knowing that he believed in Jesus Christ and that he was saved many years ago.  

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