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James Twining Obituary

James A. Twining, M.D., longtime Clear Lake resident and local pediatrician was born on October 5, 1939 and passed away on October 26, 2012 after a brief battle with cancer. Dr. Twining founded Bay Area Pediatrics in 1973.

Dr. Twining, an Illinois native, graduated from Drake University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1963. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the College Of Medicine at the University of Illinois in Chicago and completed his rotating medical internship at Chicago's Cook County Hospital. In 1966, he completed his Pediatric residency at Baylor Affiliated Hospital Residency Program at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. He served two years as a physician in the United States Army attaining the rank of Major at Madigan Army Medical Center at Fort Lewis in Tacoma, Washington.

Dr. Twining was Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He was a member of the Texas Medical Association, Texas Pediatric Society, Bay Area Pediatric Society and a Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine. He was affiliated with Texas Children's and Memorial Hermann Children's Hospitals. His active hospital staff affiliation was at the Clear Lake Regional Medical Center.

This highly respected and dedicated pediatrician is survived by his loving wife, (Patricia) Sissy Twining; five sons: Jeffrey; Donald and wife Danette; Phillip; Andrew and wife Annie; and Steve and wife Lauren. There are nine grandchildren: Ethan, Hannah, Molly, Henry, Lucy, Jessica, Garret, Jake and Travis as well as one sister, Barbara Clark and her husband, Gene of North Carolina; two brothers-in-law, David and his wife Ann Pearce; and Mickey and his wife Robbin Nottingham along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie and Donald Twining.

Dr. Twining's diverse interests ranged from being an avid reader to fly fishing, hot air ballooning, bicycling, mountain climbing, traveling and his devotion to his family. Above all, Dr. Twining truly loved his pediatric medical practice and the children for whom he cared, watching them grow up and become parents for the next generation. He will be missed by many friends, family and patients.

Arrangements will be handled by Integrity Funeral Home in Houston, Texas where online tributes may be posted at www.integrityfuneral.com. Many special thanks and gratitude go out to all of the doctors and nurses at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Vitas Innovative Hospice Care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial contributions may be directed to one of the following: Saint Thomas Apostle Episcopal Church at 18300 Upper Bay Road; Nassau Bay, Texas 77058; or at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center at P. O. Box 4486; Houston, Texas 77210-4486: Attention: Donations to Nizar Tannir, MD for Kidney Cancer Research or www.mdanderson.org/gifts; or The Texas Children's Hospital, Attention: Neuroblastoma Research, Department of Development; Suite 5214, P. O. Box 300630 Houston, Texas 77230-0630.

Memorial services will be officiated by Father Bill Hyde and held on Friday, November 2, 2012 at 2:00 pm at the Saint Thomas Apostle Episcopal Church at 18300 Upper Bay Road, Nassau Bay, Texas 77058. Immediately following the service, guests are invited to greet the family in the church Parish Hall.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Bay Area Citizen from Oct. 29 to Nov. 11, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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Michelle

October 24, 2024

Dr. Twining saved my daughter's life. She was born in 1988. 3 months after her birth she developed very deep breathing and would protrude throw up. I took her to her regular doctor who delivered her and he just gave me some in house cough medicine. (I was a young single mother on Medicaid) After about a week, there was no improvement. I took her to Dr. Twining who did not even charge me and he ran some X-rays on her and she had severe double pneumonia. He insisted I do not go home but rather take her to clear lake hospital immediately! I followed his orders. 10 days in the hospital. I did not leave her side. I overheard a nurse telling another nurse to leave the light on through the night because they didn't think she would make it. If it had not been for him seeing me without charging me, she may not have made it. Such a sweet man he was.

Huei-Yi

October 24, 2023

Dr. Twining was my favorite doctor when I was a little girl. He always took very good care of me and my brother Huei-Yuan when we were children, and Dr. Twining always had a hug and smile for me every time when it was time for my checkup. I have never forgotten him and remember him fondly, and he will always have a special place in my heart because I always felt loved and cared for as a child by Dr. Twining. He was one of a kind and the best.

Huei-Yi

October 24, 2021

Dr. Twining,
Thank you for taking good care of me when I was a child.
You were kind, caring, and funny. I will never forget you.
Love, Huei-Yi

Patsy Adams

October 10, 2013

I only just found out about Jim's death. I am very sad- as I know everyone that knew him is! I am a nurse- I actually opened the Clear Lake practice with him - the very first day! It was just a three person jug band! We had much laughter and a few tears that first year! I learned more that year than in my entire nursing school experience. Jim was such a great teacher! I attribute most of my diagnostic skills to you, Jim, and will always treasure that year. My best regards to your wife and boys. I didn't know you Sissie, but our children were the same age, so we shared lots of fun KID stories often! I know that he loved his parents very much, and now of course, they are reunited. I'm sure it was a sweet reunion. Regards, Patsy

September 28, 2013

I was one of Dr. Twining's patients when I was a child in the 70s. I just found out about his passing. He will be sincerely missed by me! He was always very caring, kind, and friendly towards me. I will never forget him. Huei-Yi

Lori Candrian

May 31, 2013

I just learned of the passing of Dr. Twining when calling to schedule an annual physical for my 17 daughter whom he was her physician since her birth. We loved Dr. Twinning. He was the doctor I selected when becoming a mom for the first time 21 years ago. He saw my son off to college. It is not often you find a doctor you want to "stick with" for 21 years. He was very caring, very positive and supportive. He will be greatly missed.
Rest in peace Dr. Twining, you were the best in your profession. The Candrian Family, Curt, Lori, Carter and Samantha

March 5, 2013

Just heard about Jim's passing and am heartbroken. Jim was such a great doctor but more importantly a wonderful father and great friend. Sissy and Jim were second mom and dad to my kids, Nicholas and Kelli and they are so lucky to have them as role models. I know my life was so much fuller for having known them. Sissy, Andy and Phillip you will be in my thoughts and prayers everyday. Love Always, Beth, Nicholas and Kelli Holota

Maria Stansell

February 20, 2013

I was so saddened to hear of Dr. Twining's passing. My children have been going to Bay Area Pediatrics since they were babies and Dr. Twining has seen both on various occasions. I was always impressed by the wonderful way he cared for my children and his gentle and loving manner. He will be greatly missed!

Amanda Alba

January 17, 2013

I am so saddened to hear of Dr. Twining's passing. He was my doctor when I was a child and has cared for all four of my children. He will be truly missed. What a wonderful and caring soul the world has lost. My deepest sympathies for the Twining family.

Fran Holcomb

December 27, 2012

Sissy,
I was so sad to hear about Jim. He was a wonderful man and will be missed by so many people. Take care, and know that we are thinking and praying for you and your family.

Michelle Koch

December 17, 2012

I always respected Dr. Twining and owed him my life for saving my newborns life when he diagnosed her with double pneumonia and admitted her immediately when other doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong with her. RIP Dr. Twining...Great Man and Doctor.

Linda Preteroti Chan

November 29, 2012

What a honor to be cared for by Dr. Twining. His greatness and love will genuinely be missed and NEVER forgotten by our family. He truly cared. Dr. Twining was there with a warm hug for EVERY immunization, illness and emergency Jacquelyn and Alessandra ever had for the past 24 years. Sissy, you and your family are in our hearts and prayers.

Christine Hoffmann

November 27, 2012

Dr. Twining was a fabulous peditrician who helped care for my three sons. He will truly be missed by all. My condolences to his family and friends.

Jessica Conway

November 16, 2012

Twining Family - so sorry to hear of your great loss; you are in our thoughts and prayers. We only knew Dr Twining for a few years, but he was a wonderful doctor and our kids loved his sweet spirit.

Love, The Conway Family

Abby & Jasmine Ruiz will truly miss you!!

Jessica Ruiz

November 12, 2012

November 12, 2012

Dr. Twining was such a GREAT Pediatrician! I Loved the way he did the bird whistle for my girls!! They would smile from ear to ear even if they were sick!! He was such a Caring & Loving person! You will be Truly missed!! Before he would walk out the room Abby & Jasmine would tell him YOUR THE BEST DOCTOR!!!

Christy Castillo

November 9, 2012

I am so sad at the loss of Dr. Twining. He was my son's Dr.
and was the best at his job! He will most certainly be missed!

Annette Hoffman

November 9, 2012

So very sorry to hear about Dr. Twining. Not only was Jim a physician for our four children (and present in the delivery room with one of those), but he was also a friend and neighbor.Our sympathy to Sissy, Phillip, and the rest of the Twining family.

Mary Praytor

November 8, 2012

Dr Twining was such as great Dr and pediatrician.He took care of our daughters since 1983. He was wise, kind, calm and very helpful. Thank you for sharing him with us. What a wonderful Dr and caring person. He was a treasure! Blessed be his memory.He will be missed.

Kelley Patek and Family

November 8, 2012

We are so terribly sad to hear of Dr. Twining's passing. Not only was he an absolutely wonderful doctor, but he was a very kind, supportive, and gentle man who will be missed very much. He was truly extraordinary, and this world is less without him.

To the Twining Family, friends, and staff, we wish you peace, comfort, and healing during this time of loss.

Charlotte Wisnewski

November 8, 2012

I am really saddened at the loss of Dr. Twining to the health care profession. He cared for both my children, Jennifer and Eric, from 1977- 1997. I will always remember him fondly. Charlotte A. Wisnewski, PhD, RN.

Nancy Milus

November 6, 2012

My sympathy to the Twining family. Jim was a classmate at WAHS in Aurora, IL. Always knew he would accomplish wonderful things. RIP Jim.

Shawn, Patrick, Ashley and Brandon Ellis

November 5, 2012

Dr. Twining was my childhood doctor and has been the favorite doctor for my two children who are now teenagers. They have loved him since they were too young to speak. What a blessed family you are to have such a wonderful, special man in your lives. Thanks for sharing him with so many of us that loved and appreciated his quiet concern and gentle nature. We will miss him so very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sissy, and all of your family. May God bless you and give you peace.

Kimberly Hart

November 5, 2012

We were so saddened to hear this news. We spent so many good times with Philip, Sissy and Jim at the baseball field. Your family is so loved by so many.

November 4, 2012

We are so saddened by the loss of Dr. Twining. He was an excellent pediatrician. I agree with all, the little birdie noise will be sorely missed. It seems fitting that his spirit live on in the clinic....I will think of him with remembrance every time I see the hot air balloon mural. Things will never be the same without him there. Love to you and your family Sissy.

Jessica Peck and family

Lisa, Laurel, Logan & Fr. Jim Smalley

November 2, 2012

A great light has been extinguished from our lives. My kids only wanted 'Dr Jim' when they were sick. Taking us from one crossed eyed little girl & a 4 pound preemie boy to healthy, happy teens who both unashamedly cried upon learning Dr Jim was gone. I still can't believe we'll never see his fabulous ties, hear the birdy whistle or be comforted by his gentle manner, calming voice and expert care. Sissy our thoughts & prayers are with you and the kids & grand kids.

the colleys

November 2, 2012

you will always be loved and missed by our family not only as a dr but as a dear friend , we send our prayers to you family. i honestly dont think i would have survived childhood with out you down the street.

Brian Laney

November 2, 2012

Dr.Twining was my pediatrician. He was also one of the first men that crossed my young, impressionable path. I can recall with almost perfect clarity my trust in his calm and well humored demeanor.

Being a sick child is something that we all remember as being unpleasant. Dr.Twining was someone who made me feel better even in those bouts with the ills of childhood.

There is no way he didn't have some influence on my appreciation for a calm, even-keeled, professional who is also quick to laugh and genuinely identify with someone.

The Laney family has always loved and appreciated the Twinings. We are deeply and truly sorry to hear of a great mans passing. We all got together here at the office and spoke fondly of his presence in our lives.

Mrs.Twining you are at the top of our minds and our feelings are from the bottoms of our hearts. We would have been at the service had we known before today at 3:00...

My sister and I were very lucky to have such an excellent man as our doctor.

Ashley Holcomb

November 2, 2012

Dr.Twining was an amazing person. He was my pediatrician and I was blessed enough to be able to bring my child there for her first year visits. He made me feel so comfortable and safe, I remember never being scared. My daughter showed the same characteristics when he came into the room with his smile. He will be GREATLY missed and remembered by so many. My heart is heavy for the entire Twining family.

The Quicks

November 2, 2012

We will greatly miss that little birdy tweeting.

Williamson Family

November 2, 2012

We are so sad to hear of the loss of Dr. Twining. He was such a great doctor to our children, and we will miss him very much. Our prayers go out to his family, as well as the family at Bay Area Pediatrics.

Blair Greenwood

November 1, 2012

I sincerely appreciate all the care Dr. Twiing brought to my brother and I. He will be missed.

Paula Smith

November 1, 2012

Dr. Twining will be sorely missed by my family. His compassion and care for others was truly extraordinary.
As a youth, I had the privilege to be one of his patients when he began his practice with Dr. Mintz. Both my children and grandchildren has had the same honor.
Dr. Twining had seriousness, yet a keen sense of humor that would put any worried parent or child at ease. I recall bringing in my son for his first stitches removal. He had slipped in the bathtub. Dr. Twining sensed the normal parent guilt, and told me this is what I call the chin zipper. Don't worry all my sons have one with the exception of one. This is very common especially with active boys. It was an overwhelming relief to hear this. During this conversation, he made the comment, I do not wish this on you by all means, but it is highly likely you will be back for more stitches to be removed and I am talking from experience. Sure enough he was right.

To the family and his staff, I am sorry to hear of your loss. I pray God will wrap his arms around you during this time of sorrow.

DeRousse Family

November 1, 2012

Prayers to the Twining family. Dr. Twining was a great Dr to my two children from birth until they were 18 years old.

Danelle (Brown) Stapleton

November 1, 2012

Dr. Twining was my pediatrician and checked up on my until I left for college in 2001. In so many ways he was part of our family, having been my siblings' doctor as well. He will be missed by so many, I know. My thoughts are with his family and the community.

Carol Krengle

November 1, 2012

The amount of trust I had in Dr.Twining in taking care of my children was unbelieveable! He started taking care of my kids when he was located near Gulfgate and has been taking care of my grandchildren for twentyone years. God bless him and his family!! HE WILL BE TRULY MISSED!

Beek Family

October 31, 2012

We were so sad to hearing about Dr. Twining's passing. Dr. Twining has cared for our son since the day he was born. On our first visit to Dr. Twining with our newborn, now more than nine years ago, Dr. Twining told us that he liked babies, but loved them even more as they grew up when he could talk to them and get to know them. He told me that he and my son "would become great friends as he grows up." And they did. God bless you Dr. Twining. We will miss you so much. Twining family--you are in our prayers.

Savithri Bonthala

October 31, 2012

May His soul rest in peace

October 31, 2012

I was so deeply saddened to hear of the loss of this truly great man and physician. I so enjoyed working at his Bay Area Pediatrics practice. His kindness and calmness were inspiring and his reassuring knowledge and advice helped so many parents. My condolences to Sissy and the entire family. I'm grateful for the memories I have of him.
Carolyn (Pilliod) Loch

Lisa Fort

October 31, 2012

There are no words to express the emptiness in our hearts for the loss of the greatest pediatrician, Dr. Twining. Dr. Twining has taken care of my two boys since the early '90s. My youngest son, Anthony, just graduated from high school five months ago and is STILL a patient at Bay Area Pediatrics, despite the fact that he just turned 19 last month. There will never be another Dr. Twining. We love you, already miss you, and you will always live on in our hearts. May God bless your precious family and staff of Bay Area Pediatrics during this difficut time.
Lisa Fort, Ross and Anthony Moody
Pearland, Texas

Amy Zigler

October 31, 2012

I think Uncle Jimmy is dodging a loaf of French Bread in heaven!! A very kind & gentle soul. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Suzanne Burkett

October 31, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the Twining family. My daughter adored him and loved talking with him. He always took his time to answer her questions. I loved his sense of humor for this overly worried mom. He took care of us both. So kind and caring! May God Bless!

Nick Churchill

October 31, 2012

You will be missed! Such a blessing to my daughter, niece and nephew! Prayers for everyone who was touched by this sweet, precious Doctor!

October 31, 2012

No words can express the sorrow that we feel because of this tremendous loss. Jim was always a man of integrity and his compassion was exhibited in the way that he cared for his patients. Our prayers are with his family, whom he loved and cherished, and for the community, which will miss him terribly. With gratitude and love, Dawn, Danielle, Michael, Matthew and Katie Korman

Linda Stall

October 31, 2012

Dr. Twining was my children's doctor from 1975 until they all went off to college and then he took on my first grandchild. He use to call me Dr. Mom because I always gave him my diagnosis before he would tell me what was going on with them. My children never had a problem going to "the doctor" because of his gentle nature and loving ways. Our hearts and prayers are with the family at this time of great loss to us all. May God Bless.

Debbie Douglas

October 31, 2012

What can I say, Dr. Twining kept hope alive when my daughter was so young and small. You cared for my son, even allowing me to bring him to your home on a saturday morning. He saved me from a T-ball game with the referees and from then on had me sit by him and sissy in order to keep me under control. We had our son's grow up together. You were the best of the best Jim. Sissy, know you can call on me any time day or knight. My heart is heavy with sorrow, I have prayed every morning that God carry you through this process. Love to the family and prayers.
Debbie Douglas

our boys

amanda dunham

October 30, 2012

He is such an amazing doctor. He has been there for my boys and there calming me down. We are deeply saddened for the loss of the best pediatrician. He always knew what to say to say and we loved his humor. He always told my boys one day you're going like me when they would cry in the office. We do like you Dr. Twining and will be greatly missed and never replaced.

Candi Mastracchio

October 30, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. What a wonderful gentle spirit he was, always giving us a smile when he came to the nursery. He took great care of all his patients, including my own children.

Kathleen Davies

October 30, 2012

our family is mourning the loss of "our" doctor. Dr. Twining was my husband's pediatrician and when our own son was born there was no question who we would choose to care for him. Both our son and daughter adore Dr. Twining and just last February he carried our daughter (9 years old) through the office to deal with her broken leg. He served our family so faithfully and lovingly and we are in despair.

April Ferguson-Kern

October 30, 2012

This sweet man took care of me from birth until I moved from TX...got me in even on a Saturday before that was expected...obviously CARED for people. RIP, sweet man. You were more than a doctor.

October 30, 2012

May the Twining's family be comforted by looking forward to a end to all sicknesses, pain and suffering that sometimes ends in death. My condolences go out to all of you.

Claire Loveall

October 30, 2012

Dr. Twining has taken wonderful care of my boys for the last 25 years. He will be missed by our family and can never be replaced.

Tracy Fillip

October 30, 2012

Dr. Twining was a caring, sincere and good natured doctor with a great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies to his family, friends, co-workers and patients.

Jerry and Tammy McGee

October 30, 2012

My sympathy goes out to his family. What an amazing doctor!! I trusted him completely with the health of my children while my husband and I were raising our 4 kids. He took extra special care of my son, who at 10 months old, became very ill. Dr. Twining was bound and determined to find out what was wrong with my little boy and took wonderful care of him the entire 10 days in was hospitalized!! Great man! Great doctor!! The world needs more caring doctors like him!! He will be greatly missed!! Prayers going up for the family right now!!

Ann Hammond

October 30, 2012

A truly wonderful doctor to my children as they grew into adults; he saved my daughter's life when she had meningitis at 10 months old. The community has lost a great friend.

Clear Lake City Veterinary Clinic Dr. Vance W. Murphy DVM and Staff

October 30, 2012

To the entire Twining Family, our deepest sympathy. May the happy memories that Dr. Twining gave to all of you ease the pain during this time of sorrow. He truly was a man whom cared for all and it shows.

October 30, 2012

My deepest sympathies to the Twining Family. Dr. Twining was our daughters' pediatrician and now he served as the pediatrician to my grandchildren. He was a patient, sincere doctor. Always very calm and always ready to guide a new parent through childhood illnesses. Always dressed in dress shirt and tie with white coat, so very distinguished and proud to be a doctor. He will be missed by all, but heaven has gained a wonderful angel whose earthly duties were fulfilled with pride. Sharon Davis

Celestina Puentes

October 30, 2012

On behalf of the Puentes family; While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.Our deepest sympathies for your loss.
May you remember Dr. Twining fondly with love and happiness.
And may your heart be freed from sadness in due time. God Bless.

Deanna, Madisom, Mackenxie and Hayden Douglas

October 30, 2012

I have no words to say what you have meant to me through out my entire life and then to my kids lives, you were my Pediatrician, a family friend and then a wonderful Doctor to my kids. Someone I always counted on. You have left an imprint on our hearts forever. We love and miss you.

Sylvia Puentes Paden

October 30, 2012

Our deepest sympathies to the Twining family; Dr. Twining always had a gleam in his eyes and always greeted you with a smile. I will miss him.

Deanna Douglas

October 30, 2012

I have no words on how much we miss you. Deanna, Madison, Mackenzie and Hayden,

October 29, 2012

our deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Twining. he was my 42 year old son's pediatrician. and his Dr. until he was to old to go to him anymore, we loved him and he kept Bill healthy.
Sincerly the William T. Cook family

Sarah Clunie

October 29, 2012

Dr Twining was an extraordinary pediatrician, fabulous boss and great friend! He was my pediatrician growing up. I had the pleasure of working at BAPA for 5 years while in highschool and going to college for nursing. He afforded me a lifetime of opportunities! He taught me how to live life to the fullest! I always loved to hear his patients talk about him and what a wonderful pediatrician he is. I will always remember his great smile and bear hugs! I will also always remember him whistling when he looked in patients ears. The kids loved that. I am so saddend to hear of his death! Heaven certainly gained a true angel. To Sissy and the Twining family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Although the journey ahead will be very difficult, know that he is always by your side!

Janice Johnson

October 29, 2012

Dr. Twining will be greatly missed by many. He was a Great Man and a Great Pediatrician. I had the honor to be one of his nurses for four years and in that time he taught me many things not only about pediatrics, but how to live life to the fullest. Heaven is blessed because he's there.

Robin Canfield

October 29, 2012

Dr Twining has been a blessing to many. I will miss him.

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