James Dee Florence, age 56, passed away on March 12, 2024, in Tyler, Texas. He was born on November 13, 1967, in Hearne, Texas.
James, also known as JD, worked at the Hearne Democrat Newspaper and Planter's and Merchants Bank.
In his free time, James enjoyed exercising and playing basketball. He had a passion for food and was always on the lookout for his next favorite meal or snack.
James loved country music!! He loved the Aggies and especially the Aggie girl's basketball team. He was very active when he moved to Tyler.
James was a part of Achieving Dreams for many years… trained and worked out and played basketball weekly.
James made friends wherever he went. Everyone always commented on his good manners and how polite that he was.
James moved to Tyler after his mother passed away 11 years ago.
If you knew James....you knew how important schedule was! He kept us very busy trying to keep up with everything he loved to do, and he became the center of his "Cousin" Becky's world.
He was very much loved and in every way a part of their family.
His passing will leave a big hole in his cousin's heart… who loved him dearly.
He has been to the beaches in Florida, hiked the mountains in NC, rafted the rapids in Tennessee and spent many hours on the lake.
He is survived by Keith and Becky Copley of Tyler, Texas, their daughters, Darla, Haley, Caitlin and Jade and their families. He is also survived by nieces Elizabeth, Meg and Morgan and their families.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Gladys Florence, and his brother, Danny Florence.
Much Love to my girls... for sharing me all these years!
A special thank you goes out to Carla Hickman, who was my person to laugh and cry with all of James shenanigans through the years.
James will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
Memorials may be made to Gold Network of East Texas
That benefits children with cancer
www.goldnetworkoet.com/donate or mail to PO Box 8962, Tyler Texas 75711.