James W. Fielden, longtime Athens Realtor and businessman died peacefully on August 3, 2016 in Athens at the age of 70.
James was born March 22, 1946 in Gilmer, Texas, graduated from Gilmer High School and graduated from Texas Tech University in 1968. He moved to Athens in 1969 and spent most of his life in the Athens area, the community he loved.
He is survived by his wife Barbara; son Michael and wife Tonya; daughter Nena and husband Kane and five grandsons he adored beyond belief, James, Jacob, Kiernan, Cole and Caden.
To Those I Love and Those Who Loved Me:
When I am gone, release me, let me go
I have so many things to see and do
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears
Be happy that we had so many years
I gave to you my love, you can only guess
How much you gave to me in happiness
I thank you for the love you each have shown
But now it’s time I travel alone
So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
It’s only for a while that we must part
So bless the memories within your heart
I won’t be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you can’t see me or touch me, I’ll be near
And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear
All my love around you, soft and clear
And then, when you must come this way alone
I’ll greet you with a smile and “Welcome Home”
At his request, no public services will be held. A private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Donations to the Cancer Research Center at UT Health Northwest, Tyler, Texas would be greatly appreciated.
You may light a memorial candle or write condolences to the family at www.hannigansmith.com.