William James Dumas

William James Dumas, known to many as Jim, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, just days shy of his 94th birthday.

Born and raised in Izoro, Texas, James graduated from Lampasas High School in 1948.  He went on to attend Tarleton State College and later transferred to Texas A&M University, where he graduated in 1952 with a degree in Agricultural Education.  That same year, James was commissioned into the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict, serving honorably in Korea and Japan.

Upon his discharge, James worked for the US Soil Conservation Service in Ozona, Texas, before moving to El Paso, where he embarked on a career as a surveyor.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife Carmen, his parents, William Norman and Mary Jewel Dumas of Lampasas, his brothers, Alvis Dumas, Bernard Dumas, and Kenneth Dumas and his sisters, Erna Mae Potts, Bess Bagby, and Geraldine Odell.

He is survived by his brother, Charles Allen Dumas of Round Rock, his two stepdaughters, Ruby Zatta and Carmen Anderson, and numerous nieces and nephews.

James had a deep love for the outdoors and cherished the times he spent traveling with his wife Carmen.  They often opted for road trips, relishing the journey as much as the destinations.  Following Carmen's death, James moved to Rowlett, Texas to be close to his stepdaughter, and in 2019, James moved from Rowlett to Round Rock, Texas to be closer to his brother Charles, and he spent his final years there.

James enjoyed reading the daily newspaper, solving puzzles, and savoring a good cup of coffee.  He was a keen listener and loved learning about the lives of his visitors.  He would ask questions about everything to know the things that were valued by others.  Even in later life, he often expressed his gratitude for his living arrangements, the quality of the food he enjoyed, and the people who came to see him.  When he broke his hip this past Thanksgiving, despite the pain, he was grateful for the company of his loved ones and found comfort in their presence.

James had a passion for playing Dominos and had an uncanny ability to predict the pieces in his opponents' hands, making him a formidable player.  He almost always was declared the winner in these games.  His kind heart, infectious laughter, and playful sense of humor left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

James will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who are grateful for the time they shared with him and the memories they will cherish forever.

Graveside services will be held on January 31, 2025, at 2 pm, at Hillsdale Cemetery, 278 Hillsdale Road, Copperas Cove, Texas.  A bereavement reception will follow at School Creek Baptist Church, 11228 CR 3420, Lampasas, TX, 76550.