James Franklin Inklebarger

James Franklin Inklebarger passed away on the morning of January 15, 2025, in Mckinney, Texas, at the age of 80.  He was born on August 19, 1944, in Reedley, California, to parents Herman Ivo and Jim Genese Inklebarger. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend who enriched our lives with his passion for technology, history, and the simple joys of life.

He grew up in Lavaca, Arkansas, and graduated from Lavaca High School. He played on the Lavaca Golden Arrows all-star basketball team and enjoyed watching his favorite teams play.

In 1963, during the Vietnam War, when he was 19, he entered the Air Force with a top security clearance in communications. He served from 1963 – 1967, achieving the rank of sergeant.  Afterwards, he met the love of his life, Judy, in San Angelo, Texas. They were married on June 1, 1968, and were married 56 years. They first met on January 15, 1967, and he died exactly to the day, 57 years later, on January 15, 2025. They have two sons, Michael James and Timothy Allen.

He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Wayland Baptist University in Plainview, Texas. He was also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and graduated with honors. He was successful in business management and ended his career with Ashland Chemical Company.

He was also an avid, lifelong golfer. He would play in rain, snow, or the hottest heat of the day. He loved working in the yard with his two sons and barbecuing on the patio. More than anything, James knew how to appreciate life’s simple pleasures – often taking the form of his favorite vanilla ice cream and chocolate chip cookies. He had a tremendous, funny wit and could make friends with anyone.

James is survived by his loving wife, Judy Inklebarger; sons Michael James Inklebarger and Timothy Allen Inklebarger; daughter-in-law Sandy; grandsons James and Jacob; in-laws, Peggy Herwick; Brenda and Dick Bridges; Michele and Paul Smith; and Teresa Barler; nephews Adam, Tony, David, Gerry, Bradley, and Mykell; nieces Brooke, Sandy, Bailey, Ellie, Michelle, and Heather.

There will be a service to honor James’s life at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Faith Chapel with Pastor Alan Moore officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to service at 11:00 a.m.

James will be laid to rest with military honors at the Dallas/Ft. Worth National Cemetery at 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 24, 2025, Dallas, Texas.