James Dalby

Some people leave behind a lifetime of accomplishments. Others leave behind something even more valuable: a lifetime of memories, laughter, lessons, and love. James Dalby was fortunate enough to leave behind a little of it all.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 5, 2026 at Trail of the Cross Cowboy Church at 226 Stadium Drive in Hillsboro. Graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Ozona.

At 85 years old, James had lived a life filled with family, hard work, friendships, undoubtedly a few good stories. He was strong-willed, wonderfully stubborn, and rarely short on an opinion. He was a man of strength, determination, and character, with a personality all his own. He believed in hard work, enjoyed life's simple pleasures, and appreciated the company of good friends. Whether it was gathering around the table for a game of 42, sharing a story, or simply spending time with those he loved, he had a way of making ordinary moments into memories worth keeping.

To his family, he was so much more than a collection of dates and accomplishments. He was a father, a friend and a source of wisdom. A man whose presence could never be mistaken for anyone else's. His legacy lives on not only in the lessons he taught but also in the memories, laughter, and love he leaves behind.

James grew up in Aspermont, TX, the son of Bill and Margaret Dalby. He graduated from Aspermont high school. He went on to build a wonderful and rewarding career in Ozona, TX in which he retired after 44 years. James resided in West, TX. He cherished his church family, his bible study family and his 42 family.

James passed away Sunday Nov 1, 2026, at his residence in West, TX. He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Margaret Dalby and his spouses, Jane Ann Dalby (2009), Judy Tate Dalby (2021).

Survivors include his daughter, Jami Dalby Valdez and husband Gilbert of Lubbock; stepson, Brad Tate and fiancé Freda of Cleburn; stepson, Kevin Tate and Toby of Ocala, FL; daughter, Michelle Phillips and husband Curtis of Burnett; son, Michael Couch of Austin; daughter, Angela Overman and husband Jerry of San Antonio; grandson, Alex Valdez and wife Shaye of Temple; granddaughter, Krystal Banuelos and husband Brandon of Lubbock; granddaughter, Emily Valdez and fiancé Martin Davis; and great grandson, Abel of Lubbock; granddaughters, Kaitin Couch, Leah Couch, Jessica Couch, and Sydney Overman; grandsons, Chance Tate, Ben Phillips, Ryley Overman and Russell Overman; sister, Patty Matthis of Jayton; and many great grandchildren and friends.

His family and friends will miss his voice, his personality and all those little things that made him uniquely himself. Above all, they will be grateful for the privilege of loving him and being loved by him.

Although saying goodbye is never easy, there is comfort in knowing that a life well lived does not simply end. It continues in the stories we tell, the lessons we carry, the laughter we remember, and the love we pass along.

And somewhere, we hope there's a good game of 42 waiting for him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.