James Pylate, Jr.

      James Pascal Pylate, Jr. passed into glory quietly at his home on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. James was born on September 13, 1941 in McComb, Mississippi to Lucille Bauerle Laughlin and James Pascal Pylate, Sr. 

      James met Pat at Sweet Home Baptist in Hankamer on a blind date to the Sweetheart Banquet. James married Patricia Beasley in 1959 and would be her helpmate for the next 60 years at home, in their community and at Seventh Street Baptist Church.

      James joined the United States Army in 1959 and was trained for the Air Defense Artillery Weapons and Fire Control Operations. He completed his service in 1962 and reserve duties through 1965. He and Pat returned to Nederland where James hired on as a city employee. He would wear many hats from Sanitation, Water and deputized police officer by the mayor as “City Poundmaster”. He completed his formal education in night school in November, 1968. This opened the door for “Booger” Pylate to become a Operator with DuPont Beaumont Works. James retired from DuPont after many years of employment.

      Many friends and neighbors remember James’ skills with a saw, hammer, and nails. He was a respected and skilled handyman around Mid-County. Others will recall his “Lawn Business” for immaculate lawns. When not serving the community, he could be found fishing, hunting or enjoying the Piney Woods. However, every Sunday you would find Brother James serving Christ as a deacon and church treasurer for 50+ years. 

      James is preceded in death by his dedicated wife, Pat of sixty years; two sisters, Glinda and Brenda Pylate; and two brothers, Bill and Monty Pylate.

      Those left behind to cherish James’ memory include daughters, Melinda McGee of New Caney and Chandra and her husband, Thomas Saldana of Tarkington; grandchildren, Jamie, Philip and Michael McGee and Bethany and Joshua Guzman and their spouses Joey, Misty, Dayanna, Richard and Taylor. Surviving siblings are Elise Ratliff, Kenneth Levy, Florian Pylate and Cyl Mansfield.

      Chandra and Melinda would like the thank Harbor Hospice and his private caregivers (you know who you are).

      A memorial contribution can be made in honor of James Pascal Pylate, Jr. to “Wheels for the World” by visiting www.joniandfriends.org .

      A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Seventh Street Baptist Church in Nederland, Texas., from 9:00am - 10:00am with the funeral service to begin at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches with full Military Honors.