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James Richard Batsell, 93, passed into eternal life on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2013.
Jim and his brother William Robert "Bob" (Barbara) were raised by his parents, James "Hurt" and Frances Compton Batsell in a home that honored God and His Word.
He graduated from Texas Southmost College and the University of Texas in Austin. In 2000, he was named a Distinguished Alumni for Texas Southmost College.
In 1946 he married Loddell Roberson, and they established their home in Brownsville. Jim and Lody raised four children, Richard (Wei) of Houston, Barry (Marjory), Gordon (Deborah) and Kathleen Barnard (James) of Brownsville. They had 15 grandchildren of whom he was very proud; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim went to work for his father Hurt in the family business, J.H. Batsell & Sons, the business that became Batsell's Sporting Goods and Hardware, where he remained until he retired in 1995. He served on the board of the National Retail Hardware Association and ultimately as its president in 1976.
Jim was raised attending First Presbyterian Church. Jim and Lody were one of the couples that established Faith Presbyterian Church. Jim served Faith Presbyterian Church most of his adult life as an Elder and church officer. He attended International Christian Center in the later years, saying with the psalmist "I was glad when they said to me, let us go to the house of The Lord!"
Jim Batsell was involved in politics throughout his life. In 1956 he was elected to the Brownsville Navigation District as a commissioner, a post he held for the next 30 years. Jim also attended the inauguration of George H.W. Bush and represented Texas as an Elector for the Electoral College in 2000.
James R. Batsell lived a life of unselfish and generous service wherever he found a need. Jesus said, "Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be the servant of all." Jim was a great man.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. at the International Christian Center Church on 2855 Paredes Line Road on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013.
You may view and sign the guest book at garzamemorialfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Garza Memorial Funeral Home.
I am so sorry for your loss of Mr. Batsell. I have memories of visiting the store as a young girl with my Dad, and later in life when my husband and I were in Brownsville. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Betty Sue Storter Rogers
October 18, 2013
Our condolences to the Batsell family. Mr Bastell was a man that we (my brother and I) always looked up to since childhood. He was always fair and he was a good man. May God Bless him, and keep him by his side.
Daniel G (Danny) Gomez
October 18, 2013
Jim Batsell set the bar high for Christian manhood. His influence and example of morality and integrity will have a continuing effect in Brownsville. May God bless all his family and may they endeavor to follow his wonderful example.
Gayle Gardner
October 15, 2013
My heart felt condolences to the entire Batsell famiies. I had the priveledge of working with Jim and Bob as a stockboy, janitor and did some equipment replacement on outboard moters for them. They were my last employer prior to my enlistment into the Navy in Feb. 1956! My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jose Hernandez
October 14, 2013
Our deepest condolces to you and your family. May God bless you and watch over you and your loved ones.
Michelle Dalton and Destiny
Michelle Dalton Destiny
October 12, 2013
What a fine man, father and great family friend. Our condolences to Lody and the family.
Charlie & Mary Eads Albany, Oregon
October 11, 2013
He always greeted us with a warm and sincere smile. Our warmest thoughts and prayers to the entire Batsell family.
Eddie A. Gonzalez & Family
Eddie A. Gonzalez
October 11, 2013
We always shopped for our fishing gear at Batsells. Mr.Batsell always lending a hand and with a smile on his face. Our condolences to all the family.
Arturo Bancalari
October 11, 2013
So loved and respected by all. You felt he was a special person whenever in his presence. His footssteps of living we all inspire to strive for but know they are only for special people. Be missed good friend. Frank Morris
Frank Morris
October 11, 2013
Our deepest and most sincere condolences to the Batsell family.
Colvin, Chaney, Saenz & Rodriguez, L.L.P.
October 10, 2013
May you each be surrounded by the love of our Lord, family and friends during this time. David and I remember all the wonderful times spent worshiping at Faith Presbyterian Church; it was indeed a family.
Jill Graves
October 10, 2013
Madera Vieja. Fond memories. May he rest in peace. Respectful condolences to his family.
Robert (bob) Richardson
October 10, 2013
A truly great man, mentor and friend. My condolences to the family in this time of sorrow.
Randy Davis
October 10, 2013
Mr. & Mrs. Batsell (Gordon & Deborah) - My condolences to you and your family. May the sorrow you feel in your heart be lighten by the love that surrounds you. God Bless you and your Family at this time. - Sandra & Emmanuel
Sandra Lopez
October 10, 2013
I had the honor to work for the Batsell's for several years. Jim was truly a great man and will be missed.
Randy Rucker
October 10, 2013
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