James Richard Sledge, born March 5, 1954, in Navasota, Texas, passed away on March 12, 2026, in Bryan, Texas. His life was characterized by dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.

James’s career was marked by distinguished service in fire protection and training. He contributed significantly to DOW Chemical’s fire safety programs and served as the Volunteer Fire Department Chief in Danbury, Texas. Further extending his expertise, he worked as an instructor with TEEX, fulfilling multiple roles including Private Sector Manager, International Training Coordinator, and proctor of tests. His professional journey also took him abroad, where he was a fire protection trainer for Saudi Aramco, demonstrating his versatility and international impact in fire safety education.

He was a man of quiet resolve—focused, stoic yet tender-hearted, protective and deeply supportive of his expanding family. James was known for his punctuality, living by the adage that being fifteen minutes early was the only way to be on time. His caring nature extended beyond family to colleagues and trainees who appreciated his dependable and considerate presence.

James found joy and solace in a range of hobbies and interests. He was passionate about playing card games and dominoes with family and friends and delighted in woodworking, crafting meaningful items especially for his loved ones. Gardening, particularly when shared with his grandchildren, brought him great satisfaction. A devoted sports enthusiast, he cherished watching any kind of sports, especially events involving his grandchildren. He maintained an active lifestyle, frequenting the gym to play basketball and lift weights either with his children or solo. After work, he enjoyed playing solitaire on the computer while listening to music at full volume. Family time was paramount; he supported the artistic, musical, athletic, and academic pursuits of his children and grandchildren, always present with encouragement and pride.

Among James’s most treasured memories were playing cards during family trips, even through spirited competition; engaging in basketball games at home, in a gym, or abroad in Saudi Arabia; savoring early morning coffee visits with family; and the joy of watching his grandchildren’s smiles and laughter. He loved traveling with his wife to follow their favorite musician across the country and attending Texas high school football playoff games with family and friends.

Above all, James was proud to have been a loving husband of over 40 years to Rebecca Sledge, a devoted father to Joseph Sledge (married to Lizzy Sledge) and Beth Puckett (married to Shane Puckett), and a cherished grandfather to Ellie and Colin Sledge as well as Sara Sledge and Levi Puckett. His numerous brothers and sisters also remain part of his enduring legacy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Chapel Sledge and Hazel Beatrice Smith, as well as his in-laws, Pete and Mary Miller.

James’s contributions to the Texas A&M Fire School Ole’ Timers Instructors organization reflect his lifelong commitment to education and mentorship in fire safety. He leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, family devotion, and selfless service that will be remembered by all who knew him.

A memorial service to honor James Richard Sledge will be held on March 18, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home And Crematory, located at 3001 S College Ave, Bryan, Texas, 77801. Friends and family are invited to celebrate and remember a life well-lived—marked by care, strength, and unwavering dedication.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his name with: Texas Volunteer Firefighter Relief Fund:www.tvffrf.com 100 Club of the Texas Panhandle: www.texaspanhandle100club.org