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James Donald McConaughey, beloved husband, father, and teacher, passed away on
Thursday, January 28th, 2021. Jim passed due to complications resulting from a two-and-a-half
month battle with COVID-19; he was 63 years old.
Jim was born in Springfield, Oregon to Doris and Donald McConaughey on November
5
th, 1957. Jim grew up with two older brothers, Michael and Gary McConaughey, as well as
younger sister, Janice McConaughey. The family lived in Alaska and southern Illinois before
moving to Houston, Texas in the mid-1960s. Jim went on to graduate from Cy-Fair High school
in 1975, and then from Sam Houston State University with a bachelor’s degree in music
education in 1980.
In 1982, Jim married his college sweetheart, Nancy Johnson. After thirteen years of
marriage, they welcomed daughter, Sarah McConaughey, in January of 1995.
Jim started his career as assistant band director to students at Cook and Dean Middle
Schools. After several years of teaching, he was offered the lead band directing position at
Arnold Middle School. Jim went on to teach at Arnold for over twenty years and retired from
the school in 2013.
After retirement, Jim began working with Delta Fastener, the same hardware company
he worked for whilst completing his college degree. Jim worked with the company until
contracting coronavirus in November of 2020.
Jim is survived by his wife, Nancy McConaughey, daughter, Sarah McConaughey, his
brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Annabelle McConaughey, brother and sister-in-law Gary
and Rhonda McConaughey, sister and brother-in-law Janice and Mark, as well as a great number of nieces and nephews.
Jim will be remembered as a loving husband and father, inspiring teacher, music lover,
and fun-loving friend. He lived a full, rich life, and inspired all who knew him. He will be greatly
missed.
3 Entries
Lynne Hughes - Springer
November 28, 2021
I regret not having known about Jim's passing earlier than now. I went to SHSU with him. Both he and Nancy were some of the nicest people I met while going to Sam. After my husband was transferred to NW Houston I called Jim. He mentioned that Dean had a new position. Now, after I have retired from teaching I can say without a doubt that Dean was without a doubt my most favorite place to work. I enjoyed every minute that I was there. I cannot think Jim enough for letting me know about the opening. In addition, I learned quite a bit from Jim and for that, I am most appreciative. I am praying for Jim and his family to bring you all peace. I know it is difficult losing a family member during the pandemic. Praying for Nancy, Sarah, and the rest of Jim's family.
Betty, Aaron and Andrea Raz/ Birchman
March 16, 2021
May you find comfort and healing. We are so sorry for your loss.
Mellicent Wiley
March 12, 2021
I’m so sorry for your loss. Praying for your family during this trying time.
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