James "Jim" Metcalf

James Barkley Metcalf, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, in Rowlett, Texas, at the age of 75. Born on November 26, 1949, in Stockton, California, James was the son of the late Jack and Kristine (Shaw) Deschamps. He was predeceased by his brother, John Metcalf, but his legacy continues through his loving family and the many lives he touched.
For 29 wonderful years, Jim was the beloved husband of Barbara Metcalf. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He was a devoted father to his children, Donna Cooper and her husband Gary, James Cline and his wife Lilly, and Elizabeth (Metcalf) Dawson and her boyfriend John Shellhamer. James's role as a grandfather was one he embraced with open arms, and he was adored by his grandchildren, Jacob Cooper, Brittney Kent and her husband Derek, Kennedy Barnhart and her husband Brett, Joshua Cooper and his fiancée Lulu, Stacy Livingston and her husband Joel, Cindy Cline and her husband Ethan Lankin, and Luke Dawson. His great-grandchildren, Kadyn, Tessa, Cooper, Anistyn, Kyleigh, and Bishop, will forever cherish the memories and lessons learned from their great-grandfather. His sister-in-law, Diane Metcalf, will remember James for the loving and generous man he was, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement.
Jim was a man of many passions and talents. His love for music was evident as he played in several bands throughout his life, sharing his gift and joy for melody with others. He was also an artist with an exceptional talent for leatherwork and drawing beautiful pieces that reflected his keen eye for detail. His creativity extended to his personal sanctuary, his "mancave," which he enjoyed working on and where he spent many hours immersed in his hobbies and crafts.
An adventurous spirit, Jim had an affinity for the outdoors and the simple pleasures of life. He was an ardent fan of the Texas Rangers, never missing a chance to cheer on his favorite baseball team. His love for the beach led him to many sun-soaked days in Destin, Florida, where he found peace and relaxation by the ocean's edge. A talented cook, he relished the opportunity to entertain friends and family with his culinary delights during cookouts, and his green thumb was evident in his garden, where he found solace and joy.
Jim's furry friend, Brandy, was a constant companion and brought immense joy to his daily life. Their bond was a testament to his kind and loving nature.
Loving, generous, and adventurous are just a few words that encapsulate this remarkable man. His presence will be profoundly missed, but the impact of his love and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Monday, June 23, 2025, at Rest Haven Funeral Home Rowlett. The family will gather with friends for visitation on Sunday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.