Dr. Jim B. Elam

Dr. Jim B. Elam, a revered spiritual leader and dedicated servant of his community, passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family in his home at the age of 89 on July 13, 2025. He was born on November 4, 1935, in Murfreesboro, Arkansas to Bryan and Allene Elam. Dr. Elam received his initial call to ministry at the age of 15 when he began preaching at a small church near his home town. He joined the U.S. Army in 1957 where he was stationed in Germany and also served as the Director of the Army's American Youth Association. Dr. Elam devoted much of his life to his family, his ministry, advancing social justice, and community service. Dr. Elam's journey in faith and leadership began with his academic pursuits. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas Christian University in 1961, followed by a Masters of Divinity in 1964 and a Doctorate of Ministry in 1981, both from Brite Divinity School. He was ordained in August 1964 at the First Christian Church of Odessa, Texas. Dr. Elam was a loyal TCU Frog fan through and through, no matter the sport, but football held a special place in his heart, especially the countless games he attended as a season ticket holder. One of his favorite trips was cheering the Frogs to victory at the 2011 Rose Bowl, an experience he deeply treasured. His ministerial career was marked by significant contributions to various congregations. He served as the Senior Minister of First Christian Church in Sulphur Springs, Associate Minister of First Christian Church in Longview, and Senior Minister of First Christian Church in Duncanville. Dr. Elam returned to Longview and became the Senior Minister of First Christian Church in Longview in 1976, where he served until his retirement in 2001. Following retirement, Dr. Elam served several congregations as an interim Senior Minister. During his 25 years of ministry at First Christian Church in Longview, Dr. Elam left a profound and lasting impact on the FCC community. He welcomed countless newborns into the world, baptized hundreds, and walked alongside couples as they prepared for marriage, offering wisdom, counsel, and care. He stood with families in times of grief, bringing comfort and compassion in their darkest hours. Through every season of life, he was a steady presence, a beacon of hope, faith, and love for his congregation he so faithfully served. Dr. Elam's visionary approach to community service was exemplified when he convened a luncheon for local ministers to discuss the establishment of the Palmer Drug Abuse Program (PDAP). This gathering was the catalyst for a transformative initiative in Longview. Among the attendees, three ministers chose to stay and collaborate: those from Trinity Episcopal, First Presbyterian, and First Lutheran churches. Their collective efforts, supported by the First Christian Church of Longview as a host, led to the formation of a group affectionately known as the "Good Guys." This alliance not only shaped the heart of Dr. Elam's ministry but also became a cornerstone for impactful community outreach. The success of PDAP inspired further collaboration, and soon, First Methodist and First Baptist churches as well as other community leaders joined the endeavor, amplifying their collective impact. The Good Guys played a pivotal role in launching several vital community initiatives, including the founding of Meals on Wheels and the establishment of Habitat for Humanity in Longview. Their remarkable contributions continued with the creation of the Food Box, later evolving into Longview Community Ministries, and the development of a chaplaincy program at Good Shepherd Hospital. The group also spearheaded a sister church initiative and the founding of the East Texas Literacy Council, leaving an indelible mark on the community. Moreover, they initiated Hospice of Longview, now known as HeartsWay, which, fittingly, provided loving care to Dr. Elam in his final days. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Amy, Angela, Shelby, and Tisha for the extraordinary care, compassion, and dignity they provided to him. Beyond these community achievements, the Good Guys were a fellowship of trusted friends who supported each other in ministry and in life. Dr. Elam cherished the camaraderie and collaboration with the original members, Mike Macey, Bill O'Neal, and Elliot Pancoast whose dedication and friendship he held in high esteem. In 2007, he was honored with the Unity Award, recognizing his efforts in building racial bridges and fostering fellowship between First Christian Church and Mount Olive Baptist Church. His leadership and dedication earned him titles such as Citizen of the Year (1986-87) and Man of the Year (1989-90). Dr. Elam also served on various boards throughout the community such as Texas Eastman, Salvation Army, Kidney Foundation of Longview, Mental Health Association of Gregg County, and Gregg County Juvenile Task Force. He also served on the Regional Council and Committee on Ministry with the Christian Church of the Southwest. Dr. Elam is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Mary Alice. Together, they raised four children: son, Dr. Matthew Elam, daughter, Beth Morris and her husband, Reverend Rob Morris, Molly Powell and her husband, Todd Powell, and daughter, Dr. Margaret Elam Bloodworth. He is also survived by his cherished eight grandchildren: Adelynn Morris, Sam Powell, Elanor Morris, Jack Bloodworth, Thomas Powell, Oliver Morris, Benjamin Bloodworth, and Nathan Bloodworth as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Bryan and Allene Elam, his sister Betty Sue Dillard, and brother-in-law, Jack Dillard and many other loving family members. Dr. Jim B. Elam's life was a testament to love in action. His legacy of faith, compassion, and community service will continue to inspire those who knew him. His family and friends, along with the countless lives he touched, will forever remember his warm spirit, his sense of humor, and his enduring dedication to making the world a better place. Services will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at First Christian Church of Longview, TX. Visitation will be in the church parlor beginning at 1:00 p.m. Graveside services will be held at Peatown Christian Church cemetery immediately following the service. In remembrance of Dr. Elam's life, the family invites those who wish to make a memorial contribution to consider donating to First Christian Church of Longview, Peatown Christian Church, HeartsWay Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, or Longview Community Ministries.