Obituary of James Edward Whitacre

James Edward Whitacre, Jr October 23, 1936 - August 28, 2016 James E. Whitacre James “Jim, Jimmie” Whitacre, 79, of Baytown, Texas passed away on Sunday, August 28, 2016 surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Kirksville, Missouri on October 23, 1936. He graduated from Lubbock High School in 1954 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas Tech University in 1959. Jim was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the United States Army prior to working for Hi Port Industries as a Vice President for many years. Jimmy enjoyed playing music and singing and was a member of the Kingston Combo while attending Texas Tech. He was also a founding member of The Ghost Riders Band which was a local favorite for several years during the 70’s and 80’s. Jim is survived by his loving wife JoAnne Whitacre (Simpson) and they were married on May 29, 1971; they were married for 45 years. Mr. Whitacre is survived by his beloved sister Sarah Creedon; two children, Scott W. Whitacre and his wife Demica, Renee W. Smart and her husband Liam; three step children, Debra Rotroff, John Guidry and Joe Bonnette; his grandchildren Cydney, Elaina, BriAnna, Blake, Brady, Bevin, Adrian and Brook; his great grandchildren Nicholas and Brenna; and his nephew Edward. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Alberta Whitacre of Lubbock, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Baytown Humane Society, P.O. Box 2772, Baytown, TX 77522 or Lone Star Boxer Rescue, 21175 Tomball Pkwy #389, Houston, TX 77070. The family of Jim Whitacre wishes to thank Harbor House Hospice and San Jacinto Methodist Hospital. Memorial services are pending.