James Daniel Speasmaker

James Daniel Speasmaker, 50, loving husband and father, passed away on July 6, 2025. A Visitation in his honor will be on Monday, July 14, 2025 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. A Funeral Service will be at 11:00am, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Grace Gardens.

James was born in Rota, Cádiz, Spain, on September 23, 1974. A 1992 graduate of LaVega High School, James went on to serve in the U.S. Navy for four years before becoming valedictorian of his Fire Academy Class. He carried that same dedication and heart of service into every chapter of his life.

On January 9, 2004, he married the love of his life, Shelley Speasmaker, in Waco, Texas. Together they built a life grounded in love and raised four wonderful children, all whom James absolutely adored. James was Shelley’s constant; he was a devoted husband and father. He did not just love his family – he carried them. He was simply the one everyone could count on, James was their rock.

James was a hardworking man, deeply committed to service—whether through his career, his community, or his kitchen. He spent 12 years working in the field of polysomnography, helping patients through the science of sleep. He later worked at Limestone Medical Center for five years, calling it the best chapter of his career because of the many wonderful friends who became like family. He also ran a small business, Lonestar Specialized Services, as a quiet act of service to friends and the community.

James had a servant’s heart, giving his time freely to those around him. That same spirit extended into his love for food. He was always ready to try something new, but even more excited to share it. Whether it was a home cooked meal, a recipe, or a story to tell, James gave generously. He lived by Luke 6:38, “Give, and it will be given to you” and instilled that characteristic into his children by example every single day.

James was preceded in death by his father, Philip A. Speasmaker; father-in-law, Carl Cummings; niece, Faith Cummings; Aunt, Jeanie Sides Johnson; his grandparents, whom he cherished, as well as uncles and cousins.

He is survived by his loving wife, Shelley Speasmaker; his sons, Hunter Speasmaker and Lane Speasmaker; daughters, Braelyn Speasmaker-Parkinson , Ashlynn Speasmaker; son-in-law Kevin Parkinson ; his mother, Amerita Speasmaker; his In-laws, David and Terry Karr; his grandparents, David Sides and Norma Kay as well as many beloved brothers, sister, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Due to Shelley’s health treatments, chemotherapy, the family has planned a celebration of his life which will be on September 20th from 12:00pm to 5:00 pm at Slow Rise on the Brazos. The date was chosen to fall near James’s birthday, allowing those who loved him to gather in celebration and remembrance of a remarkable man.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions may be made to the family.