James was born on December 5, 1938, to Dale and Elizabeth Skidmore. He was one of eleven children, growing up in a large family that taught him the value of hard work, faith, and looking out for one another. Those values stayed with him throughout his life and were reflected in the way he cared for his family and served his community.
One of James’s greatest callings was serving his community through the volunteer fire department. He faithfully served as Fire Chief for 16 years, leading with courage, humility, and a servant’s heart. Whether responding to emergencies or helping a neighbor in need, James was always willing to put others before himself.
Above all else, James loved his family. He treasured time spent with those he loved, enjoyed sharing stories and laughter, and passed along the importance of integrity, hard work, and kindness through his example. His steady presence, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to his family and community will never be forgotten.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda Skidmore of Telephone, Texas; daughter, Becky McCleese and her husband Kevin of Sherman, Texas; granddaughters, Alisha Converse and her husband Bret of Milburn, Oklahoma, and Emiley Myslicki and husband Christian of Weatherford, Texas; great grandchildren, Leighton Myslicki, Creed Converse, Cager Converse; sisters, Shirley Haskins of Telephone, Texas, and Barbara (Punk) McCoy and her husband Robert of Bonham, Texas. Along with cherished friend and employee for almost 40 years, Ubaldo Medina of Telephone, Texas.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Dell and Nancy Skidmore, three brothers, Pete Skidmore, Delbert Skidmore, and Jerry Skidmore; five sisters, Bertie Mae Eubanks, Irene Whited, Doris Phillips, Deloris Conn, and Nancy Carolyn Frehner; nephew, Craig McCoy; niece, Katrina Akers; great nephew, Taylor McCoy.
James lived a life defined by service, humility, and love. From wearing the uniform of the National Guard, to answering the call as Fire Chief, he devoted himself to helping others. James spent countless hours doing what he loved, tending his peanut fields, his herd of prized cattle and hay fields as well as maintaining county roads.
A celebration of James’ life will be held at Telephone Baptist Church on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 2:00 PM. Visitation will follow the service at the Telephone Community Center. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home.
Donations in James’ memory to the Telephone Volunteer Fire Department will be greatly appreciated by his family.
To share a memory or leave an online condolence, visit www.coopersorrells.com
