James R. Roden

James Ray Roden, born in Sweetwater, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025.
James was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, roles he cherished deeply throughout his life. He took great pride in his family and the legacy he leaves behind through generations of love, guidance, and strength.
Born and raised in Sweetwater, James lived there for about 75 years and worked for Gandy's for 36 years, earning respect and friendship from all who knew him. He married Jacqueline Byrd on July 10, 1954, and they spent many sweet years together. He also loved farming and ranching, hobbies that brought him joy and connection to the land.
A lifelong lover of baseball, James especially cherished the Texas Rangers. He was once drafted into the minor leagues, but was unable to play because he wore glasses. In addition to baseball, James was also a very skilled bowler and enjoyed golfing, hobbies he greatly enjoyed and took pride in.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis Henry Roden and Gracie Andrews Roden; his infant twins, Richie Lee Roden and Vickie Lynn Roden, who died shortly after birth; and his siblings, Tommy Roden, Johnnie Smith, and Mary Frances Mathieu.
He is survived by his three sons, Curtis Hayden Roden and his wife Lisa of Cameron, Texas; Monty Ray Roden and his wife Michelle of Abilene, Texas; and Tony Allen Roden and his wife Cheri of Sweetwater, Texas.
James is also survived by his grandchildren, Nathan Ray and his wife Aubrey of Abilene, Texas; Justin Allen and his wife Micah of Abilene, Texas; Tyler James and his wife Morgan of Abilene, Texas; Jacob Michael and his wife Lyric of Grapevine, Texas; Hayden Chase; and Caitlin Ruth. His one and only great-grandchild is Hudson James.
He also cherished his step-grandchildren, Lance Smith and his wife Kelli of Carrollton, Texas; Ryan Smith and his wife Jamie of Hurst, Texas; Amber Ortega and her husband Matthew of Sweetwater, Texas; and Dustin Dakota Thomas and his wife Heather of Buckholts, Texas, along with seven step-great-grandchildren, loving them as if they were his own.
James will be dearly missed and forever remembered in the hearts of his family and loved ones.