James Ray Farmer, Sr.

James Ray Farmer, Sr., 96, a longtime resident of Houma, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born on January 18, 1929, in Shreveport, Louisiana, James led a life enriched with love, family, and a deep sense of duty.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation in his honor on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Houma First United Methodist Church from 9:00 a.m. until Funeral Services at 11:00 a.m. Burial to follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery.

James is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Betty Jo Chambers Farmer; children, James Ray Farmer, Jr. (Ladale), Suzanne Reckert (Tom), and Richard Farmer (Dinea); daughter-in-law, Millie Farmer; grandchildren, Jay Farmer (Amy), Brett Farmer (Monica), Tracy Duplantis (Tracy Lynn), Ashley Necessary (Rustin), Lauren Speer (Sam), David Reckert (Tara), Kevin Reckert (Mary), Amelia Reaves (Gaven), Spencer Farmer (Corinne), Collin Farmer (Alex), and Jourdan Farmer (Katie); and 23 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in passing by his son, Ken Farmer; and parents, D.K. and Bertha Farmer.

James served his country honorably as a paratrooper and bomb disposal technician in the U.S. Army during World War II, a testament to his bravery and commitment. Upon returning home, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into becoming a successful business owner in the oil field contracting industry. His dedication and passion extended beyond his work-he was a cherished family man who found joy in spending time with his loved ones. He took great pleasure in carving wooden ducks and birds, a hobby that reflected his creativity and connection to nature.

A dedicated member of the Houma First United Methodist Church, James was actively involved in his faith community. His contributions extended further as he was a proud member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he forged lasting friendships and supported fellow veterans.

In this time of remembrance, we invite all who knew James to share in his story, reflecting on a life well-lived, filled with compassion, service, and the warmth of family. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in his honor to The American Cancer Society or The Wounded Warrior Project.