James Vonley Travis

James Vonley Travis, born on April 4, 1943, in Brownstown, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the age of 83.

James grew up in Ashdown, Arkansas, where he attended Ashdown High School, graduating in 1961. During his high school years, he distinguished himself through academics and was an accomplished member of the football, cross country and track teams. He was especially proud of his 1960 District 7-A Championship in football, as well as being a two-time All-State selection in track and a member of the 1961 Arkansas Class A State Champion track team at Ashdown, where he was a member of the winning team along with his twin brother John in both the 880-Yard Relay and the 1-Mile Relay. These achievements reflected the determination and character he carried throughout his life and would go on to help him earn a track scholarship to the University of Memphis.

After college, James served his country in the United States Air Force before joining the workforce.

James lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, service to others and love for his family. Early in his career, James was instrumental in the creation of the Child Support Program at the state level for the State of Arkansas. He went on to spend over 40 years of his career serving people and working for the government, eventually becoming the Region VI Program Manager for the federal) Office of Child Support Enforcement, an agency under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, The Administration for Children and Families. He was respected for his commitment and strong work ethic. Those who knew him will remember him for his kindness, quiet strength, and the care he showed to those around him

James is survived by his wife of 41 years, Maria N Travis; sons Nicholas Travis and Michael Avino; grandchildren Maximus and Amelia Avino and brother John D Travis. He was preceded in death by his parents, Duke Lane Travis, Sr. and Leva Marie Cooper, and brother Duke Lane Travis, Jr.

His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever cherish the time they shared with him. He was deeply loved and will be missed dearly. James was the definition of a family man, a loving husband, a role model not only as a father, but an amazing dad and grandpa, and will always be remembered as a perfect gentleman.

There will be a memorial service to celebrate his life at 3:00 p.m., Monday, August 3, 2026, at Allen Family Funeral Options with Pastor Robert Matthews officiating.

There will be a reception to follow the service.