James Craig LaBrie Sr.

James Craig LaBrie, Sr. (fondly known as Jimmie) was born on January 9, 1945, in Houston, TX. He was raised in Fifth Ward and graduated from Phillis Wheatley High School in 1963. He attended Texas Southern University for a short time before enlisting in the United States Air Force. Jimmie served his country in the Vietnam War. After returning from Vietnam, Jimmie started his career as a machinist with Hughes Tools, and worked there until he tired from the company at the age of 65. After he retired, Jimmie enjoyed spending time at home with his loving wife and children, eating good food and watching his favorite shows on TV (Houston Texans games and Law & Order). Jimmie peacefully departed his earthly life on March 26, 2018 in his own home surrounded by his children.


Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Cecile LaBrie, and the love of his life, his wife, Onelia. He leaves behind two children, James Jr. (Dana) and Monica, siblings Jean LaBrie, Marion LaBrie, and Pamela Robinson, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.