Ella Mae Hays James was born October 23, 1929 in New Boston, Texas to Jessie and Velma Hayes. She passed away January 15, 2016 in Gainesville, Texas.

She married Bruce L. James July 15, 1947 in Marshall, Texas. Bruce and Ella Mae were both from large families and enjoyed spending time with their sisters, brothers and families. She enjoyed playing canasta, dancing and listening to music.

Ella Mae was a homemaker and a great cook. Most of her time was spent raising three boys, but in her spare time, she enjoyed vegetable gardening and caring for her small dogs. Her home and family were her pride and joy. She was a long time member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Marshall, Texas.

She is survived by her sons, Tommy James and wife Kay; David James and wife, Deborah; and Steve James; grandchildren, Lori Prestage and husband, Randy; Lindsay Dodson and husband, Colby; Jason James and wife, Libby; Ashton James; and Jennifer James. Great-grandchildren include Landon Prestage, Kennedy and Kinsler Dodson, Madyson , Jaxon and Hudson James, Aaron and Hunter Swindle and Karli Kollatt; sisters, Dorothy Burnett and Marie Collins along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and two brothers, Harless Hayes and Charles Hays.

The James family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the people of Pecan Tree Manor and CC Home Hospice. 

Parents: Jessie Thomas Hays

Velma Mae Oney Hays

Spouse: Bruce Levern James 1920-2011        Married July 15, 1947

Siblings:

Children: Marvin Thomas James 1948-

David Glen James 1950-

Bruce Stephen James 1960-