James Henderson Strain

James Henderson Strain, 83, passed away at home after a brief bout with cancer on Sunday, December 22, 2013. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 27, at 11:00 a.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1741 Sayles Blvd., Abilene, Texas. Services are under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. James was born to James H. and Victoria Strain in Odessa, Texas on November 26, 1930. He was an Eagle Scout and graduated from Haskell High School in 1948. He was in the Class of ’52 at Texas A&M and graduated with a degree in civil engineering. James married Carolyn Henshaw on May 30, 1952, and they celebrated 61 years together. Following his years at A&M, James served as Survey Officer with the 7th Infantry Division Artillery Headquarters in the Korean War. James helped build and develop the highway construction business begun by his father – J.H. Strain & Sons, Inc., in Tye, Texas—still in operation today after 54 years. He served on many governing boards in the highway industry including member of the National Asphalt Pavement Association Board Representative for the southwestern states, President of the Texas Highway branch of the AGC as well as President of the Texas Hot Mix Association. In addition, James is a past president of Dixie Little League, a board member of the former Citizens National Bank of Abilene, and was a director of the Abilene Better Business Bureau. He was a founding member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church and served as Chairman of the Administrative Board. James was always an inspiration to his children, especially during the past few months as he faced the end of his life with bravery, dignity, and a never-diminished sense of humor. His children are: Jayne Richardson of Austin, Texas and her husband Larry, and children Alexis and Court; Steve Strain of Abilene and his wife Cindy and their children Ross and his wife, Melissa, and Whit; and Kent Strain of Abilene and his wife Suzanne, and daughter Kaitlyn. James is also survived by his sister, Doris Lloyd and her husband Herman; and his brother Ernest Strain, all of Abilene. Contributions in memory of James Strain may be made to Aldersgate United Methodist Church, or the charity of your choice.