James Lawrence Stroud

James Lawrence Stroud
July 2, 1929–April 30, 2009

My name is Jim Stroud. Some of you know me by "JL". I was born in Weatherford, TX in 1929. I'm the middle kid of eight. Can you even imagine my mom's problems? I (we) grew up in a family of tenant farmers till I was about 14 years old. As a family, we went through floods, almost poverty-and.. Mom finally said, "We're moving to town!". Thank GOD! Mom worked in the laundry. Dad drove truck. I worked in a grocery store stocking shelves. I graduated at 16 and joined the navy. I went to San Diego, and met many folks from afar in our beloved United States. Some are still friends today. I couldn't believe the navy could give us 3 full squares-every day.
I rose in the enlisted ranks. I was turned down for OCS because of being color blind. I married my first love, Elizabeth. We had two wonderful boys, Steven Douglas and Richard Stroud. Unfortunately circumstances parted us after only twenty years. I truly regret that. Much of it was my fault.
Almost forgot-I joined the Masonic Lodge in Texas, and enjoyed going from place to place as part of a fine degree team. I was quite active with the Masons throughout most of my navy career.
After retiring from the Navy I went to work selling securities in the Seattle area. In 1970 I moved to Castle Rock WA and sold real estate with United Farms. I was selected to be the regional real estate broker and helped establish numerous successful companies throughout the state.
Castle Rock was a wonderful community for me. I made many friends. I even accepted an appointment to become the local judge for a while. I soon realized that position, although important, conflicted with my real estate business.
In about 1990 I met a fine lady and together we built a horse farm. My son Doug was one of the top trainers in the AQHA and he encouraged me to become active and participate. I bought a few horses and with Doug, got into heading & healing and became the AQHA senior healing champ with a buckle to prove it. For a while I raised foals for future roping and training with my son. Up till a few years ago I enjoyed raising buffalo. Quite an experience.
All seven of my brothers and sisters are still alive and well. I have several grandkids and two great kids. My hope is that they look within and find true enjoyment. Reach out and learn to accept new ideas. I'll miss ya'all!
This past year I did something I always wanted to do. I got into my motor home and headed to Mesa, Arizona. Lotsa sunshine and very little rain. On April 30th of this year I was ready to head back "home", and sure enough, that's where I am! Thank you all for the wonderful memories. It's been quite an experience. See ya soon ya'all.
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www.legacy.com/chronline.