James "Jim" Bethune

Celebration of Life Services for James "Jim" LaFayette Bethune, 79, of Gladewater will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 27, 2017, at the First Christian Church in Gladewater with Dr. Ray Boulter officiating under the direction of Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater. The family will greet friends following services at the church.

James LaFayette (Jim) Bethune peacefully went to be with the Lord on Friday, May 19, 2017, at his home in Gladewater, Texas. Jim was born on March 9, 1938, in Joinerville (Rusk County), Texas, to James C. and Nellie McQuillen Bethune.

He was a 1956 graduate of Winnsboro High School. Following high school, he worked for Western Union and retired from General Telephone in 1995. On May 1, 1960, he married the love of his life, Phyllis Ann Duffey Bethune. They made their home in Gladewater where he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and bowling. Jim was one of the founders of Manna House in Gladewater. His favorite past times were reading and spending time on his farm in Perryville. A granddaughter described him as being one of the greatest men she knew, as a kind, gentle person who would do anything to help anyone. He was a wonderful provider for his family all the while instilling so much knowledge in them. He will be truly missed.

Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Phyllis Bethune, son Jimmy and wife Darla of New London, TX; daughter Vickie Hagan and husband Jack of White Oak, TX; grandchildren, Jamie Davis and husband Keith, of Gilmer, TX; Carolyn Brown, Hunter Bethune of Gladewater, TX, and Megan Weldon and husband Josh of New London, TX; nine great grandchildren, brother Bill Bethune and wife Gail of Canton, TX; sister Ann Honeycutt of Pasadena, TX; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Manna House in Gladewater, Friends of the Library of Gladewater or First Christian Church in Gladewater.