James Richard Bullard

Funeral services for James Richard “Sonny” Bullard, 90, of Cleburne, will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Calvary Baptist Church, located at 700 Woodard in Cleburne, Texas with Rev. Charles Payne, Rev. Brooks Monk and Rev. Donnie Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Greenacres Memorial Park. There will be a time of visitation for family and friends at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home Chapel from 6:00-8:00 PM on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. 

James Richard "Sonny" Bullard, born on November 24, 1934, in Cleburne, Texas, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, February 23, 2025. A beloved figure to many, Sonny lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to his faith, family and community. He married Melba Ann Marr on July 29, 1955, in Cleburne. They were married just shy of 64 years at the time of her passing in 2019. Sonny was a family man in every sense of the phrase, always working to ensure his family was cared for and loved. 

 A proud veteran, Sonny served in the United States Army from October 1957 until his honorable discharge on October 17, 1959. His military service was a testament to his dedication to his country, and it further shaped the values he embodied throughout his life.

Sonny embarked on a successful career that ended with over 30 years with the Santa Fe Railroad in 1989 as a Maintenance Supervisor. Following his retirement, he continued to serve his community by working at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home for over 10 years. In both his professional endeavors, Sonny's character shone brightly, embodying a spirit of service that touched countless lives.

Sonny was a man of great character and faith. He was deeply involved in all activities at his church. He found joy in life and shared that joy generously with others. Known for his kindness, he would often bake cookies for friends, family and church members, ensuring that everyone he encountered felt loved and welcomed. He gave freely of his time, talents, and resources, embodying a spirit of giving without judgment.

Sonny was survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Tim Bullard & Janis; grandchildren, Dustin & Veronica Bullard, Joshua & Emillia Holmes, and Jacob & Miranda Holmes; 6 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth & Diane Bullard; sisters and brothers-in-law, Shirley & Manning Coward, Sue Mitchell, and Diane & Ronnie Hasty; sister-in-law, Bennie Payne; numerous nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Blanche Jones Bullard; his beloved wife Melba Bullard; daughter, Kimberly Ann Bullard; and sisters, Ruth York and Vera Nell Green. 

Sonny Bullard’s legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered for the joy he brought to the lives around him.