William James Dumas, known to many as Jim, died on Jan. 22, 2025, just days shy of his 94th birthday.
Born to William Norman and Mary Jewel Dumas, he was raised in Izoro.
James graduated from Lampasas High School in 1948.
He attended Tarleton State College and later transferred to Texas A&M University, where he graduated in 1952 with a degree in agricultural education. That same year, James was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict, serving honorably in Korea and Japan.
Upon his discharge, James worked for the U.S. Soil Conservation Service in Ozona before moving to El Paso, where he embarked on a career as a surveyor.
James was preceded in death by his wife Carmen; brothers Alvis Dumas, Bernard Dumas and Kenneth Dumas; and sisters Erna Mae Potts, Bess Bagby and Geraldine Odell.
He is survived by his brother Charles Allen Dumas of Round Rock; two stepdaughters, Ruby Zatta and Carmen Anderson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
James had a deep love for the outdoors and cherished the times he spent traveling with his wife Carmen. They often opted for road trips, relishing the journey as much as the destinations.
After Carmen’s death, James moved to Rowlett to be close to his stepdaughter, and in 2019, he moved to Round Rock to be closer to his brother Charles, and spent his final years there.
James enjoyed reading the daily newspaper, solving puzzles and savoring a good cup of coffee. He was a keen listener and loved learning about the lives of his visitors. Even in later life, he often expressed his gratitude for his living arrangements, the quality of the food he enjoyed, and the people who came to see him. When he broke his hip this past Thanksgiving, he was grateful for the company of his loved ones.
James had a passion for playing dominos and had an uncanny ability to predict the pieces in his opponents’ hands. He almost always was declared the winner. His kind heart, infectious laughter and playful sense of humor left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Graveside services will be held Jan. 31 at 2 p.m. at Hillsdale Cemetery, 278 Hillsdale Road in Copperas Cove. A bereavement reception will follow at School Creek Baptist Church, 11228 CR 3420, in Lampasas. Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel has charge of arrangements.
