James Victor Gallington

James Victor Gallington, 90, of Texas, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on July 11, 1936, in Houston, Texas, James lived a remarkable life defined by faith, family, service, creativity, friendship, and an unmistakable sense of humor. James was a proud Navy man who served his country during the Korean War. During his service, he served aboard two different ships in the roles of seaman, torpedo-man, and quartermaster. His time in the Navy was a source of great pride throughout his life. After his military service, James met the love of his life, Gwendolyn “Gwen” Gallington, also known as Jerry. Following a short courtship, the two were married on May 2, 1958, beginning a partnership that would last a lifetime. Two years later, they welcomed their first daughter, Tammy, followed over the next six years by Lauri and Kimberly, completing their family. James held many occupations throughout his lifetime, but none brought him greater pride than founding The Gallington Iron Company. A gifted and imaginative craftsman, James became a nationally award-winning artist for his ornamental ironwork. His artistry and craftsmanship were so exceptional that some of his work was chosen to be displayed at The Metal Museum, the only institution in the world dedicated exclusively to fine metalwork. His work lives on as a testament to his creativity, skill, and dedication to his craft. As devoted as James was to his business, he was even more devoted to his wife, daughters, and family. He was a loving husband and father who worked hard to create a home that was fun, safe, and filled with love. Some of his happiest memories were made while camping, boating, and fishing with his family. The family traveled throughout Texas and other states, often staying at KOA campgrounds and making memories that would last for generations. Above all, James loved Jesus and believed deeply in the importance of raising his family in a Christian home. After finding his faith as a young man, he made church an important part of his family's life. The family joined Memorial Baptist Church, where James became deeply involved. He served as the director of Training Union and loved singing in the choir each Sunday morning. It was there that he formed some of his closest and most lasting friendships. When the family moved to Humble, Texas, James and Gwen helped open a new mission church, Spring Memorial, started by Memorial Baptist. James quickly became involved in the church community, continuing his lifelong tradition of serving others, building friendships, and sharing his faith. In his later years, James and Gwen enjoyed attending craft fairs and exploring antique shops together. Their creativity continued to flourish as they began making jewelry, wooden crafts, and ceramics to sell at shows. James also became involved with the Happy Strings, where he learned to play the ukulele, harp, kettledrum, and washboard—adding even more music and laughter to his life. His love of music soon became another way for James to bring people together. He helped start the Friday night karaoke singers, where he developed a particular love for singing karaoke. After James and Gwen joined First Baptist Church Willis, he continued sharing his talents, joining fellow seniors in performing skits and singing karaoke. Once again, he found some of his dearest friends through music, laughter, and his love for Jesus. Wherever James went, he made friends. His quick wit, love of practical jokes, generous spirit, and compassion for helping others drew people to him. He had a remarkable ability to make people laugh, feel welcome, and feel like they belonged. His friendships were lasting because James gave freely of himself and genuinely cared about the people around him. James is survived by his three daughters, Tammy Albrecht and husband Jimmy; Lauri Peake; and Kimberly Rychlik and husband Bruce; his grandchildren, Christie Yates and husband Eric, J.J. Albrecht, Caulan Peake, Brianna Peake, Courtney Rychlik, Mandy Rychlik, and Bailey Rychlik; and his two great-grandchildren, Samuel and Levi Yates. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Anna Gallington; his beloved wife, Gwendolyn Gallington; his brothers, Thomas Gallington, Jr. and Frank Gallington; and his son-in-law, John Peake. James will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will live on in the laughter he shared, the lives he touched, the beautiful work he created, and the faith that guided him throughout his life. His family takes comfort in knowing that the man who loved Jesus so dearly is now home with Him.

James Victor Gallington

July 11, 1936 - August 21, 2026