James Melvin Means

James Melvin Means, of Abilene, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 16, 2011. A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 20, 2011, at First Central Presbyterian Church, 400 Orange Street with Reverends Cliff Stewart and Janice Six officiating. Arrangements are by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road in Abilene. James was born in Olney, Texas, to Cecil Melvin Means and Elsie Marie Means on December 27, 1949. He went to school at Cooper High School, graduating in 1968, and attended both Cisco Junior College and University of Texas at Arlington. He married Nancy Lewis-Means on September 26, 1998, in Abilene. He worked over the years with Chevron Oil and other areas of oil production, Dry Manufacturing (with his father), and as an over-the-road company driver and owner/operator until 2010. He traveled the entire USA from coast-to-coast and all points in between and could give you directions wherever you were regardless of where he was. James was a kind, loving and generous man whose heart knew no malice. He was the kind of man who would give you his last cent if he thought it would help. He always had a story or joke to tell for any occasion. His wealth of knowledge and know-how were incredible. James' lifelong love of music began in high school where he played tenor saxophone for the Cougar Brass; he often reflected on those years playing at Old Abilene Town in the 60's. He was never on time but his overwhelming charm made it easily forgivable. He had two sons, Tanner and Ty, who he loved dearly and were his pride and joy. Some of his happiest memories were from living in and visiting Ruidoso, New Mexico. James loved to travel and experience life to the fullest. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan through good seasons and bad. He was a gun enthusiast and taught his sons gun safety and how to shoot. He was a good cook and loved to grill. The past year he was extremely supportive and helpful of his wife, taking care of day-to-day tasks while she worked various jobs transitioning into retirement. He will be remembered for his nurturing love of family, his belief in God, his out-going nature and his love of others. He was a kind and generous man. James was preceded in death by his father, Cecil Melvin Means and his mother, Marie Means. James is survived by his wife, Nancy Lewis-Means; his son, Tanner and his wife, Amanda Means of White Deer, TX, and son, Ty Means of Lubbock, TX. He had four beautiful granddaughters, Grace, Ally, Claire and Madilyn. Survivors also include his sister, Lynda Nelson; two nieces, Tommye Lynn Marshall and Tammy Nelson; and numerous great-nephews and great-nieces. Memorials may be given to The American Cancer Society, The American Heart Association, The Presbyterian Medical Mission or a charity of your choice.