CAMPBELL, Texas — James Lewis Coody, 68, of Campbell, passed away Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born Dec. 13, 1950, in Vicksburg to Edwin Austin Coody and Mary Jeanette Given Coody

Jim attended high school at Warren Central High School in Vicksburg, graduating in 1968.

In June, 1973, he joined the United States Air Force, serving as an avionic command specialist.

After six years of faithful service, he was honorably discharged in June 1979.

While in the Air Force, he married the love of his life, Marie. They were married in Blytheville, Ark., on April 5, 1975. In 1980, Jim graduated from East Texas State University with a degree in engineering. He worked for L3 in Greenville for 40 years, before retiring in 2015.

Jim enjoyed many activities during his retirement. He was a member of the Terrell Rifle Club, the Texas Hawking Association and the North American Falconry Association, more commonly known at NAFA.

Jim and Marie could always be found attending athletic events at Texas A&M-Commerce.

Good memories were made when they rode a fan bus to Midwestern State University to watch the Lions in a football game.

Jim especially enjoyed softball games. He was always in the stands cheering on the Lady Lion softball team!

Jim always had a smile on his face and lit up a room with his quick wit and good humor.

He will be missed by many friends and family.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marie; his daughter, Maryann Watson and her husband DeQuan; his brother, John Coody and his wife Mera; his brother, Michael Coody and his wife Orite; his sister, Brigid Coody and his sister, Margo Brock and her husband, Brad; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Mary Coody.