Harold “Wayne” James, beloved father, grandfather, and legendary back road navigator, passed away on May 2, 2026, in Temple, Texas, at the age of 70.

Born in La Marque, Texas, to Geraldine (née Courtney) and Wade L. James, Wayne spent his childhood in Amarillo, Marshall, Austin, and eventually Temple, collecting lifelong friends and a few tall tales everywhere he went. He remained especially close with his fellow Class of ’74 Wildcats, Texas Tech Red Raiders and Cablevision friends, whose stories and friendships stayed with him throughout his life.

Known by many names throughout his life- Wayne, Dad, Sunshine - the title he treasured most was “Pop Pop,” lovingly given to him by his only grandson, Cannon. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his grandchildren, Cannon, Charlotte and Claire, sharing with them the finer things in life: Texas back roads, good barbecue, Big Bend, the Beatles, Blue Bell ice cream, and a difficult crossword puzzle.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gary James, as well as two grand-dogs, Cali and Murphy Lee, who undoubtedly met him at the Rainbow Bridge.

Wayne leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory and his quiet strength: his daughters and son-in-law, Ashley and Nelson Kortis, Emily James, and Kayley James; the mother of his children, Laura (nee Moore) James; his beloved grandchildren, Cannon, Charlotte, and Claire Kortis; his sister and brother-in-law, Debbie and David Martin; his “bonus” mothers Matella James and Ruth Daniel; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nephews, great-nieces, dear friends, and countless people lucky enough to have shared the road with him.

A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 1:00pm at First Lutheran Church in Temple.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to support the Sunshine Kids Foundation, https://www.sunshinekids.org - or a charity of your choice.