William Allen James

William Allen James, affectionately known as Bill, was born on March 17, 1938, in Afton, Michigan. He passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, in Copperas Cove, Texas, after a prolonged battle with Lewy Body Dementia. He was 86. Bill's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to family, a distinguished military career, and a passion for welding that spanned decades.

After enlisting in the Army, at the age of 20, Bill returned home to learn the trade of welding from his father. His love for this craft led him to join the Welders Union, where he worked diligently as a civilian welder until rejoining the Army at 24, completing this enlistment in 1965. Demonstrating his dedication to service, Bill enlisted one final time in 1972, proudly serving a total of 20 years in the military before retiring in 1986 at the rank of CW3. Throughout his military career, he received numerous accolades, including the Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal, and several others acknowledging his exemplary service.

Following his military retirement, Bill maintained his boundless energy and enthusiasm for life. In 1988, he took a position with General Dynamics in Cairo, Egypt, as a Supervisor for the M1A1 Tank Project, bringing his beloved wife, Marlis, with him. After three tours in Egypt, the couple moved to Pakistan for a new opportunity with Raytheon, showcasing Bill’s adventurous spirit and commitment to his work.

Bill was a devoted husband to Marlis with whom he shared a loving partnership that would see them celebrate their 60th Anniversary in 2024. He was also a caring father to his daughters and Opa to his grand and great-grandchildren.

Bill's character shone through in every aspect of his life. He was a 92nd Degree Mason, which he was very proud of. Known for his kindness and loving nature, there was nothing he would not do for his family and friends. He possessed remarkable skills, able to build and fix just about anything with a unique knack for problem-solving. An avid hunter and fisherman, he spent his leisure time enjoying the outdoors and nurturing his love for working on cars. His joy extended to cooking, where he often delighted in creating new dishes.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marlis James; daughters Vickie Pease, Christine James (spouse Charles Buck), Karen Longoria (spouse Dino Longoria); grandchildren Jackie Summers, Jamie Reedy, Michael Longoria, Christopher Longoria, Brandon Longoria, and Megan Longoria; several great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert James; a sister, Margaret Ann James Duffy; and numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Flora Klingaman Ostrander; father, William Arthur James; and sisters Patricia Alice James Lewis and Mary Elizabeth James Bossom.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on March 4, 2025, at the location in Copperas Cove, Texas, followed by burial at the Veterans Cemetery Killeen. Bill's legacy will continue to live on through the cherished memories created with those who loved him dearly.