James "Jim" Phillip Plumb Sr.

(Lt. Col. U.S.A.R. Ret.) January 25, 1936 – November 26, 2024 Our beloved father, Pawpaw and mom’s precious life partner, Jim Phillip Plumb, Sr. (Jim) made his final journey to be with our lord Jesus on November 26, 2024. Jim was born in El Paso, Texas and is preceded in death by his parents, William Herbert Plumb Sr., Vera Wood Plumb, his brother William Herbert Plumb Jr. and his eldest son Jim Phillip Plumb Jr. The family will host visitation at 5:30 pm followed by a Rosary service at 6:30 pm on Tuesday December 17, 2024, at Stewart Family Funeral Home in Tyler, Tx. A Memorial mass will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11:00 am at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Whitehouse, Tx. Jim will be laid to rest on January 25, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Forest Park Cemetery in Shreveport La. Jim is survived by his dedicated wife of 65 years, Rose Emilia Escott Plumb and his sons, Michael Scott Plumb of Tyler Texas, Stephen Patrick Plumb and wife Denise of Cypress, Texas and daughter Kathleen Plumb Woods and husband Bryan of Austin, Texas. Jim was Pawpaw to eight grandchildren, Jessica Rose Plumb Gamble, Geoffrey James Plumb, Joshua Hinojosa (deceased), James Phillip Plumb III (JT), Ava Ryan Plumb, Andie Rose Plumb, Wesley Benjamin Woods, Klaire Leigh Woods as well as two great grandchildren, Bryleigh and Beckham Gamble. Jim was loved by his large extended family that included three brother-in-law’s, Joseph Alfred Escott, Arthur Michael Escott (deceased), Richard Edward Escott (deceased), Charles Fekany (deceased) as well as six sister-in-law’s Loyce Todd Plumb, Anita Marie Escott Fekany, Jeri Escott, Hester Rivers Escott (deceased), Angelina Cosumano Escott (deceased), and Clarice Escott (deceased). Jim also had numerous nieces and nephews that adored Uncle Jimbo. Jim's life story is one of devotion, service, and legacy. His journey began in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he laid the foundation for a life filled with purpose and commitment. From his early years at Claiborne Elementary to his time at Fair Park High School, Jim was already building the qualities that would define his life: leadership, dedication, and service to others. Jim had many friends, and he always made time for his closest companions, who referred to themselves as the “Seven.” As a member of the ROTC program, a representative to Boy's State, and an active participant in his community, Jim demonstrated early on the values that would guide his future endeavors. While attending Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La. Jim was Captain of the Black Knights Drill Team; he served the National Fraternity of Sigma Tau Gamma and held the office of president his senior year. Jim graduated with a degree in business as well as a Commissioned Second Lieutenant Officer in the United States Army. Above all his collegiate accolades, Jim met the love of his life, Rose Emilia Escott at Northwestern and the two married in January 1959. After graduating with a degree in business, Jim’s commitment to the US Army took him to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and then to Fort Hood, Texas, where he served as a Communications Officer for the First Armored Division, known as "Hell on Wheels." His military career, which included both active duty and reserve service, was marked by dedication and sacrifice, earning him the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1980. His time in the military not only honed his leadership skills but also solidified his commitment to service, a trait that would remain a core part of his identity throughout his life. In his civilian career, Jim made significant contributions to the energy sector. Starting with Houston Lighting and Power (now CenterPoint Energy), he worked his way up through various roles, ultimately becoming Manager in charge of coal combustion by-products. His work in researching and finding safe, environmentally friendly uses for coal ash had a lasting impact on the energy industry and earned him a leadership role as Chairman of the Board of the American Coal Ash Association. Jim’s work was a testament to his innovative spirit and his commitment to sustainability, further cementing his legacy as someone who not only contributed to his field but also worked to make it better for future generations. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was deeply devoted to his faith, family, and friends. He was dedicated to his Eucharistic Minister and Usher duties for Prince of Peace Catholic Church, and his work with the Knights of Columbus exemplified his strong spiritual foundation. As a husband, father and grandfather, Jim found his greatest joy in his family. He instilled in his children the values of faith, hard work, respect, and loyalty, and he took immense pride in watching his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren forge their own paths in life. Jim's passion for sports, especially fishing, hunting, and golf, brought him joy and served as a bonding experience with his children. His love for sports extended to his community, where he played an instrumental role in establishing the Northwest Little League Baseball and Softball Programs in the early 70s. His coaching, particularly with the girls' softball team, earned him the affectionate nickname "Cat Daddy" and with the support of his assistant coaches, John and Pete they competed in numerous district championships and state tournaments. Jim's life was a rich tapestry of service, leadership, and love. He was a man who dedicated himself to his country, his community, and, above all, his family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him—through the lessons he imparted, the example he set, and the love he shared with everyone around him. His family expresses deep gratitude for the care Jim received over the last years of his life, from the dedicated Tyler doctors to his nurse and physical therapist with Paradigm Home Care. In his memory, donations may be made to the Prince of Peace Catholic Church https://www.princeofpeacewhitehouse.org/, Wounded Warriors Project https://www.supportwoundedwarriorproject.org, Wellspring Catholic Retreat Center https://www.wellspringcommunity.net, or a special charity of your choice. Jim will be dearly missed, but his legacy of service, faith, and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

James "Jim" Phillip Plumb Sr.

January 25, 1936 - November 26, 2024