James Frank Mature

James Frank Mature, 89, of New Waverly, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born December 1, 1935, in Willow Springs, Texas, to Mike and Lilian Mature, James lived a life rich in faith, family, service, and music. His mother, Lilian, a nurse in Conroe, instilled in him a compassion that would define his years. He attended school in Conroe before graduating from Coldspring High School in 1955. Immediately following graduation, James answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army. He spent six months in the Alaskan Territory and the remainder of his three-year tour at Fort Lewis, Washington. Upon his return to Texas in 1958, he began a career as a Correctional Officer for the Texas Department of Corrections, before moving to Houston in 1959 to join General Foods Maxwell Division. He worked for 29 years in the Maxwell Division rising from laborer to Shift Supervisor. It was in Houston, that he met the love of his life, Margaret Noviski. He always joked that he got a job and met his future wife, Margaret, on the same day! They married in 1960 and were blessed with three sons: James Caesar, Robert Frank, and Anthony Thomas. The family found deep solace and community in St. Charles Borromeo Church, where the boys attended primary school. Their faith provided unwavering strength during the immeasurable loss of their eldest son, James, in 1977, a tragedy caused by a drunk driver. Music was a lifelong passion for James. He was a gifted guitarist, particularly drawn to old-time fiddle music, and he cherished the friendships he forged through his love of the genre. He generously shared his musical talents with his sons, teaching Robert to play the fiddle and introducing Anthony to the guitar. Following his retirement from Maxwell House, James and Margaret returned to New Waverly, where they actively contributed to their community. They served for five years as co-chairs of St. Joseph Church, a testament to their dedication to their faith and their commitment to serving others. James’s desire to serve extended further; in 2003, he was appointed Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4, Walker County, Texas, a position he held with distinction for 11 ½ years before retiring in 2014. He found great fulfillment in assisting others and helping those in need. Even after retirement, James's passion for life remained vibrant. He enjoyed the beauty of nature and had a deep love for animals, finding solace in caring for his cows and other livestock on the ranch. James was preceded in death by his son, James C. Mature; his mother, Lilian Mature; and his father- and mother-in-law, Pete and Sophie Noviski. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Margaret Mature; his sons, Robert and wife Rosie Mature, and Anthony and wife Lynda Lee-Mature; granddaughter Carolyn Mature; grandsons Kenneth and wife Heather Mature, Quinn Lee, and River Lee; great-grandson Daniel and wife Kelsey Mature; great-granddaughter Macie Mature; great-grandsons Maverick Mature and Case Ellis; and great-great-granddaughter Tazley Mature. His legacy of faith, service, and unwavering love will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Huntsville. A rosary will begin at 7:00 PM. Services will be Thursday, February 13, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Waverly at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest at Shepard Hill Cemetery with military honors following the service. Memorial condolences may be made to the family at www.shmfh.com.

James Frank Mature

December 1, 1935 - February 7, 2025