**Obituary for James Thomas Hooper**

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Thomas Hooper, age 81, on June 9, 2025, in Pearsall, Texas. Born on July 10, 1943, in Kingsville, Texas, James lived a life characterized by his unwavering dedication to family, his passion for service, and his commitment to his community.

James graduated from Southside High School in 1961 while working as a ranch hand at several locations, later obtaining a position with the Colonial Cake Company in San Antonio at age 18. In 1962, he embarked on a career at Wayne Bull Co. He honorably served in the United States Army from February 26, 1965, to February 26, 1969, achieving the rank of Sergeant (E5). His military service included time at Fort Devens and an assignment in Turkey, where he served as an officer instructor upon his return.

Following his military discharge, James returned to Wayne Bull Co. and subsequently transferred to the Houston warehouse in 1977. He married his beloved wife, Peggy, in May 1979. Over the years, he managed various warehouses, eventually operating the Corpus Christi and Rio Valley locations for 5 years. In June 1982 the company was acquired by AI Automotive and in 1992 by Straus Frank Co. In 1991, he and Peggy established their business, JP&D Enterprises, after his career with Straus Frank Company, where he excelled in sales for 25 years.

James and Peggy, embracing their entrepreneurial spirit, enjoyed managing their soda business for five years before selling the company and retiring.  They purchased a ranch in Carrizo Springs in 1995 and finally settled in Poteet in 2000. He was a legacy member of the Poteet VFW Post # 6970 and a devoted member of Cowboy Fellowship Church. Together with Peggy, he cherished traveling across the country in their RV, fishing, camping, and creating treasured memories with their grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy Hooper; his parents, Isaac and Hazel Hooper; and his siblings: Myrtle Barefoot, LaVonia Sadler, Mary Williams, and brothers Bob, Harvey, Charlie, Ben, and John Hooper. He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Hooper Torres, and her husband, Gilbert, of Poteet; grandchildren Dalton Hunter Torres and his wife Sara of Osan Air Force Base in Korea, Dillon Ray Torres and his wife Jenny of Castroville, and Dustin McCoy Torres of Rockland, CA; great-grandchildren Carson Hunter and Oliver Reid Torres of Osan Air Force Base in Korea, Motley Amor Torres of Castroville; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held in honor of James Thomas Hooper with visitation on Friday, June 20, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Hurley Funeral Home. The family invites all who knew him to join in celebrating a life well-lived, marked by love, friendship, and a commitment to service.

James will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Serving as pallbearers will be Dalton Torres, Dillon Torres, Dustin Torres, John Shipley, Buddy Szulewski, and Bob Schimelpfening.