James Choate passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024 at the age of 86. James was born on April 12, 1938 in Talihina, Oklahoma to Jack and Hazel Choate.

James spent most of his childhood in Lovington, New Mexico. He graduated from Artesia High School in 1956, where he was in various clubs and played basketball.

After high school, James went to work in the oil fields. He married Sandy in 1958 and worked for GTE until he retired after 30+ years. James and Sandy spent every day together. They loved going to garage sales and Canton Trade Days.

James loved to entertain others with stories of how he grew up. In the 1970s, he was a member of the Plano Lions Club. He was an avid Plano Wildcat football fan, where he attended the weekly Wildcat quarterback meetings. He kept his season ticket for 50+ years. He loved to go to Denny's for coffee where everyone knew his name as Mr. Jim. He loved taking family trips to Walt Disney World.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years Sandy Choate, son: Mickey and wife Trish, daughter: Suzie and husband Tom, daughter: Melissa and husband Alfonso. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Amie, Julie, Dylan, Hanna, Savannah, and Megan, and great grandchildren: Kingston, Princeton, Weston, and Simeon.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jack and Hazel, brother Ken, and sister Wilma.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 12:00 pm noon at Lovington Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to www.kirbysmithrogers.com.