Alton "Jim" Fitch, a beloved resident of Port Arthur, Texas, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on April 12, 2025. Born on December 29, 1931, in Port Arthur, Jim lived a remarkable life characterized by unwavering dedication to his family, community, and faith.
Jim had a fulfilling career, retiring from Gulf Oil after 28 years of service as a pipefitter. His talents extended beyond his professional work; he was an avid craftsman, known for his exceptional skills in making jewelry and crafting rosaries. Jim's creativity and precision shone through in every piece he created.
A proud graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in 1949 and 1950, Jim furthered his education by attending Lamar College. He also served honorably in the National Guard, United States Air Force, and Army, showcasing his commitment to his country.
His personality was one of warmth and humor; he never met a stranger and always brought laughter into the lives of those around him. Jim was an avid reader, nurturing a deep love for knowledge. He enjoyed dancing and listening to Cajun music, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly moments spent at the beach.
Jim cherished his family above all else and was a devoted member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where he served as a Eucharistic minister and was honored as an honorary member of the Knights of Columbus. His legacy of faith and service will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Audrey Fitch, along with his children, Joan Orr and husband, Dwain, Veronica Messina, Gwen Young and husband, Mark, and Jack Fitch and wife, Stacey; his children-in-love; Stacy Menard and husband, Kevin, Edmund Hernandez and wife, Cheryl, Daniel Hernandez and wife, Tricia, and Reagan Hernandez and wife, Kim. He proudly leaves behind grandchildren, Aaron Sterling, Raegan Sterling and wife, Jennifer, Tessa Shuff and husband, Stephen, Vincent Messina Jr., Madelyn Messina and fiancé, Ethan McInnis, Mary Kate Middleton and husband, Kyle, Jacob Young, Jared Young and his significant other, Abby, Evan Fitch, and Gabriel Fitch, along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Emmatila Fitch; his first wife, Connie Robinson Fitch, and his beloved siblings; Benard Fitch, Georgia Gaspard, Agnes Moore, Anna Fitch, Hazel Richard, Evelyn Floerke, Mary Ella Moseley, Ruby Sebastian, and Jeanette Turnham.
Special thanks to our angel, Tammy Espinosa Ortiz for her loving care and tireless service and also, Harbor Hospice for their excellent care and compassion
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 8:30am until 9:30am at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Nederland, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Port Arthur. Interment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches.
Jim's presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will be forever cherished by all who were fortunate enough to share their lives with him.