Dr. James Byron Bexley

James “Jim” Byron Bexley, 85, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, Chairholder Smith-Hutson Endowed Chair of Banking and Distinguished Professor of Finance at Sam Houston State University went to heaven on Friday, October 18, 2019. Jim was born in Waco, Texas on January 11, 1934. He graduated from Temple High School in 1952, attended The University of Texas at Austin on a football and baseball scholarship and then went on to serve his country in the Army as an Officer. He was passionate about learning and continued his education, receiving his undergraduate degree, law degree, masters degree, and doctorate degree. Jim was married to the love of his life, Elsie Mae Bexley, for 64 wonderful years. He was truly “one of a kind” and made an impact throughout his career and in the community. Passionate about banking and education, he served as the Smith-Hutson Endowed Chair of Banking for 24 years at Sam Houston State University. He was honored to receive the Texas State University System Regents’ Professor Award. As the faculty athletic representative for Sam Houston State University, he enjoyed serving and cheering on the Bearkats. With over 35 years of experience in the banking industry, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from The Texas Bankers Association. He was also honored to serve on Federal Reserve Bank eleventh district Board of Directors. During his tenure, he served on both the executive and audit committees. His knowledge and expertise were used to consult for banks all over the United States as well as the largest private bank in China and a bank in Malawi, Africa. He served as a Deacon and taught Sunday School at University Heights Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Elsie. Two Children Byron Bexley (Debbie) and Tammie Risica (Tony); eight grandchildren Kristin McWilliams (Justin), Amy Reardon (Kevin), Tyler Bexley (Louise), Kasey Struzyk (Ryan), Brooke Rock (Preston), Justin Bexley (Laura), Jamison Bexley (Sereena) and Trevor Risica; 13 great-grandchildren; and many friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his mother Rubye Bexley and father Joe Bexley. Visitation will be held at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 22,2019 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm and a Celebration of Life will take place at 10:00 am on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at University Heights Baptist Church in Huntsville, Texas. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be designated to the James B. and Elsie M. Bexley Banking/Finance Scholarship Fund.

Dr. James Byron Bexley

January 11, 1934 - October 18, 2019