James Coyle

James Smith Coyle was born in Bedias, Texas, to James Rowan and Merle Williams Coyle on July 9, 1941. He was the only boy with four sisters: Debbie, Leona, Bessie, and Patsy. They grew up in Bedias. James loved the outdoors and began working as early as he could.
James married Diane Whatley Coyle and they had four children. James helped raise his grandchildren as his own and loved it best when family filled his home. James was an excellent carpenter who could build anything with his hands.
A true cowboy at heart, he loved living in Texas and Arizona, working as a ranch hand and he enjoyed teaching children and grandchildren to love target shooting. His work also took him to California and Oklahoma. James was an outstanding carpenter with a gift for building anything. His primary career was at TAMU Facilities where he was greatly respected.
Happiest days in his lifetime were anytime his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were nearby, playing out in the yard, in a giant dirt pile he had gathered for them to explore in. Classic country music would always be on the radio. At nights by campfire, he would play guitar and sing with and for the family. His trademark mustache earned him the nickname “The Marlboro Man,” but delighted answering to “Popa.” He died on Dec. 16 in Houston.
He was preceded in death by his wife Diane, his children Darla Diane Coyle and James Dean Coyle; sisters, Debbie Risinger, Leona Coyle Sanders, and Bessie Coyle Dill. He is survived by his longtime sweetheart, Bobbie Ann; children, Donna Lynn Coyle Tribby and John Anthony Coyle; sister, Patsy (Pack Rat) Risinger; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Dec. 21, at 2pm at Callaway-Jones Funeral Center with interment to follow at Alexander Cemetery.