James Allen Meekins

James Allen Meekins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather & friend, passed away peacefully in Huntsville, Texas, on Friday, August 21, 2026. Jimmy’s journey here on earth was one marked by love, compassion and unwavering faith in God. He was born on December 28, 1944, in Brenham, Texas to John & Velma (Winkelmann) Meekins. Jimmy grew up in the community of Lynchburg with his brothers, John Wayne & Tommy and attended school in Deer Park. Jimmy graduated from Deer Park High School in 1963 where he was a student leader and excelled in football, basketball, baseball & track. Some of his leadership roles included serving as captain of the football team, class officer, outstanding male student and Student Council. While receiving numerous scholarship offers in football and basketball, he chose the University of Houston because it was the only scholarship that allowed him to play both football and basketball. An added bonus was that his future wife attended UH. He graduated with a B. S. in 1967 and received his Master of Education in Administration from Stephen F. Austin University in 1989. On December 19, 1964, Jimmy married the love of his life – his best friend and high school sweetheart, Wanette Leonard. They enjoyed almost 62 years together of devoted love, cherished memories and God’s abundant blessings. Jimmy and Wanette had six children – Kerri, Corby, Marty, Matt, Clay & Kelli. They raised their family in the country community of Pine Valley where their children became and remain best friends. Jimmy was a dedicated educator for 51 years serving as a teacher, coach, athletic director and administrator. He worked at Deer Park I. S. D. and Shepherd I. S. D. before retiring in 2018. During his coaching years he was dubbed the “Gentleman Coach of East Texas” by a local sportswriter and received Coach of the Year Award. Jimmy inspired his players to do their best both on and off the field. Beyond the scoreboard his goal was to build character - he wanted his athletes to achieve success in all aspects of life. His former players were very special to him and still address him as “coach.” As a school administrator, he touched the hearts of those he worked with through his wisdom, kindness, and loyal support. His calm presence was a source of comfort to colleagues and students alike. He served as a mentor to many younger administrators and educators, always willing to share his experience and guidance. His staff and students viewed him as a man of faith, an encourager, and often a father figure. He always looked forward to lunch duty because it was a time he could see and visit with students. Jimmy was well known around campus for his whistling as he walked through the halls. His office reflected his faith and values – a picture of “The Bridge of Faith” hung behind his desk and his card holder bore a cross. His office door was always open and the candy jar was always full. He loved his career in education and would always say, “I never had to work a day in my life.” He is a past member of the Texas High School Administrators Association, Texas High School Coaches Association, Shepherd Ministerial & Education Alliance, recipient of the Deer Park ISD Humanitarian Award and the Mirabeau B. Lamar Award of Excellence in Education. Jimmy’s life was centered on the four Fs – Faith, Family, Friends and Football. An active member of Faith Lutheran Church, he served in many roles over the years including Congregational President, Elder & Faith Lutheran Youth Sponsor. He was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather who treasured time with his family. Gatherings were often filled with good food, laughter, and friendly, but lively competition in “42”, Pitch, ping pong or corn hole. He looked forward to celebrating holidays, birthdays, and the tradition that brought the family together every year - the annual Meekins Family Week on the river in New Braunfels and later Galveston. He rarely missed attending ball games, performances and activities of his children and grandchildren. Big D & Mimi’s annual Kuzin Kamp each summer was a much-anticipated occasion to create special memories. Jimmy also enjoyed music, golf, traveling and getting together with friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter - Kerri Nanette Meekins, grandson – Reagan Roberts, parents – John & Velma Meekins, brother – John Wayne Meekins and sister-in-law – Monte Knight. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years – Wanette, their children – Corby (DeAnna), Marty (Kyle), Matt (Shyanne), Clay (Robin) and Kelli (Beau); 11 grandchildren – Courtney Meekins, Madison Quiggle (Jack), Reece Roberts, Cade Meekins, Cole Meekins, Reid Meekins, Riley Meekins, Kaci Roberts, Ivy Meekins, and Rayce Roberts; greatgrandchildren Sloane Roberts and T. J. Quiggle; brother Tommy Meekins, sister-in-law Barbara Meekins, eight nieces and nephews, 16 great nieces and nephews, and numerous dear friends. Jimmy’s life was one of quiet devotion. Though he will be greatly missed, Jimmy will be remembered for his deep faith, love for his family, humility, generosity and sincere respect for everyone he met. His legacy will live on through the many generations who were blessed to call him Dad, D and Big D. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Jimmy Meekins Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations may be made to: Venmo@Jimmy-Meekins11

James Allen Meekins

December 28, 1944 - August 21, 2026