Jim Witcher

James (Jim) Douglas Witcher - Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend - passed away peacefully at 77 years old on October 30, 2024, in McCamey, Texas. Born on August 26, 1947, in Bryan, Texas, Jim lived a life full of love, laughter, and service. Jim has been entrusted to Nichols Funeral Home of McCamey, TX. Services will be conducted by Rev. Ted Creech of McCamey, TX and Rev. Mandy Stanford of Rankin, TX.

Jim was an incredible husband to Mary Witcher for 55 years, a devoted father to his two sons, John and David, and a cherished grandfather to his four grandchildren. He loved his family fiercely, and his warmth and openness created bonds that transcended bloodlines, reminding us all that family is defined by love and connection, not just by name. His warm spirit lit up any room he entered, drawing people in with his genuine interest in their lives. Whether sharing a laugh or offering words of encouragement, he had a way of making the ordinary feel extraordinary. Those who knew him cherished his wisdom, his laughter, and the simple joy of his presence. In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, he reminded us of the beauty in connection and the power of kindness. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jim served honorably in the U.S. Army from March 1970 to December 1971 and was a proud, dedicated military veteran. His love for his country was matched only by his commitment to education. Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology followed by a Master's of Education from Tarleton State University and a Principal Certificate from Sul Ross State University. He spent nearly two decades as a passionate Earth and Life Science teacher at McCamey Middle School before becoming the school's principal, a role he held until his retirement in 2004.

As a prior member of the McCamey First United Methodist Church, Jim also participated in the Rankin United Methodist Church as a follower of Jesus Christ. He was known for his love of the outdoors, enjoying hobbies such as fishing, kayaking, woodworking, and camping. Jim also loved serving his community as a member of the local Fire Department, EMS, and Appraisal Board.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Mary, and their loyal dog, Otto. He leaves behind his sons, John of Raleigh, NC, and David of Cypress, TX, and their wives Betty and Jennifer respectively along with his grandchildren: Christy and husband Matt Barker of Knoxville, TN, Michael and JP, of Raleigh, NC, and Coby of Cypress, TX. He is also survived by his sister, Janet Witcher of Gardner, KS.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Doug and Lydia Witcher of Grandfalls, TX, and his brother, Robert Witcher of Dallas, TX.

A memorial service to celebrate Jim's remarkable life will be held at Nichols Funeral Home in McCamey, Texas, on December 7, 2024, at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Permian Basin Honor Flight, a cause close to Jim's heart, at https://www.pbhonorflight.org

Jim’s legacy of love, kindness, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be dearly missed!