James Spangler

James Earl Jim Spangler Mr. Spangler, 89, passed away June 30, 2011 in his home surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jim was born the youngest of 7 children October 21, 1921 in Leonard, Texas to Oscar and Ola Spangler. He attended Hopewell, a small country school through 8th grade then graduated from Leonard High School in 1939. After graduation Mr. Spangler worked in the C.C.C. camps in several states then went on to join the U.S. Coast Guard after Pearl Harbor was attacked. With both older brothers already serving in the armed forces his mother advised him to join the Coast Guard because they protected our shores. He served as a radar communications specialist aboard the destroyer escort U.S.S. Peterson (DE-152). Jim ended up making 11 round trips to Europe on the U.S.S. Peterson. When the Germans surrendered, his ship was reassigned to the Pacific theater until the end of World War II. After several months of being home, he decided to re-enlist in the Coast Guard and serve another tour of duty. Upon leaving the service Mr. Spangler worked various jobs until he became a skilled machinist and retired from the profession in 1983. He married Boots Lindsey, the love of his life, on April 4, 1959. They began their marriage as a blended family. He had 2 girls and 1 boy and she had 2 girls and 2 boys. Several years later their family expanded once more when they opened their hearts and home to include a 16 year old son. They had 47 fun filled and devoted years together. If they werent playing dominoes, cards, croquet, or going bowling, they were camping. The last 25 years of marriage, their home was in Culleoka, TX where they were members of Culleoka Baptist Church. He will be remembered as a loving husband and devoted family man. He was kind, soft hearted and a true gentleman. His deep and abiding faith served as a great example for all that knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and his wife Boots. He is survived by his children, Claudia Monroe of Garland, TX, Mike Crank and wife Karen of McKinney, TX, Dee Holt and husband Gary of Greenville, TX, Ray Turner of Royse City, TX, Cathy Gilbert and husband Billy of Leonard, TX, Jim Taylor Spangler of Vancouver, WA, James Earl (Butch) Spangler, Jr. and life partner Ron of Addison, TX and Connie Spencer of Princeton, TX. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. His family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Vibrant Home Health for the loving care he received in his final years. Also, to Hospice Plus for making it possible for our father to spend his last hours in his home comfortable and peaceful and surrounded by his family. All friends are welcome to join his family in a celebration of his life, Sunday July 3, 2011 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Dee and Gary Holt at 2115 Walworth St. in Greenville, Texas. A military graveside service will be held Tuesday, July 5, 2011, 10:00 a.m. at East Shady Grove cemetery west of Leonard, Texas with Herb Spangler, nephew, officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Quinlan Funeral Home in Quinlan, TX.