James Clyde Kline

James Clyde Kline, a cherished resident of Nederland, Texas, passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on August 5, 1930, in Kilgore, Texas, James lived a life marked by dedication, community service, and an unwavering passion for family and sports.  At 93, James dedicated his life to Christ by joining St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church.

James devoted 34 years of his professional life to Gulf Oil, where he served as a clerk in the Package and Grease department, earning the distinction of being one of the last "Gulf Mules" before his retirement in 1989. He was proud of his career and the steadfast work ethic he brought to his role.

A man of many interests, James had a particular fondness for Western movies and spent countless hours fishing, cooking, gardening, and collecting stamps. His love for friendly competition was evident in his enthusiasm for playing Scrabble. Additionally, he was a passionate supporter of the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Dallas Cowboys, relishing the moments spent watching games and tournaments, especially the Little League World Series.

James left an indelible mark on his community through his involvement with Little League baseball. He not only coached teams, including the Little League Cardinals, who won the championship under his guidance, but also dedicated himself to ensuring that every boy who wished to play baseball had the opportunity to do so, providing uniforms and transportation for those in need. His legacy in youth sports stands as a testament to his caring nature and commitment to his community.  James served as a coach, mentor, umpire, and President of the Little League Board.

In terms of military service, James demonstrated his patriotic spirit as a member of the R.O.T.C. in high school at Fair Park High School in Shreveport, Louisiana and later joined the Air Force, where he earned both the National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal.  

James was proud to be classmates with Faron Young, a country singer, musician, and songwriter, and Tommy Davis, an American professional football punter and  kicker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League.

He is survived by his son, James Kline, Jr. of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; daughters, Loretta Taylor of Port Neches, Nancy Resendez (Tony) of Nederland, Gloria Kline of Nederland, and Mary Ann Sheppard (Rod) of Beaumont; and grandchildren, Shannon Caldwell (Shannon), Candace Routh (Mark), Jessica Maxwell (Jason), and SMSgt James C. Kline, IV (Amanda). He took great joy in his role as a grandfather to his great-grandchildren: Drake Routh, Hudson Routh, Bennett Routh, WO1 Jerod Caldwell, Hailey Caldwell, Wesley Caldwell, Nehemiah Woods, and Grace Woods. His bonus family also included Tracy Swiere, Sara Bergeron, Ayden Bergeron, Brock Peters, and Abigail Johnson, along with special nieces and nephews Barbara Ivy, Jim Campbell, and Sande' O'Dwyer.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Delma Mae Kline; his parents, James Clyde Kline, Sr. and Katherine Nevada Kline; his cherished grandson, Jarrod "J.T." Taylor; and sisters Mildred, Georgia, Faye, and Sydney.

A visitation will be held on July 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home,1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas, 77627. This will be followed by a Mass at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church at 211 Hardy Avenue, Nederland, Texas, 77627, at 11:00 AM followed by a graveside service with full military honors at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches, Texas.

The family would like to give a special thank you to our brother from another mother, fishing buddy, and greatest neighbor, Mark Ellis and his wife, Jennifer. Also, our angels from South East Texas Hospice, who took such good care of our daddy.  Additionally, we thank our family of friends who were our Prayer Warriors, especially Carolyn and Pam.

James Clyde Kline will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and friend, whose legacy of kindness, commitment to his community, and love for family will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to SETXhospice.org., click on the right hand corner, then donate now.  You may also send donations to 912 West Cherry Avenue, Orange, Texas 77630.