James NORTH

James Russell “Bubba” North 79, lived life to the fullest – a life filled with family, love, friends, wit and humor. His earthly journey ended with his passing Monday, September 5, 2016. The family will have Bubba’s Celebration of Life, Thursday September 8, 2016 from 4:00 ~ 7:00 p.m., in North’s Funeral Home, 242 Orange St. Bubba was born October 28, 1936 in El Campo, Texas to Russell Wales and Willena (Megginson) North. The family moved to Abilene in 1945 where they co-owned Laughter- North Funeral Home which later became North’s Funeral Home. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1955. He attended the University of North Texas in Denton. He graduated from Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science with a degree in Embalming and Funeral Director. He worked in the family business until retirement in the nineties. He married Judith Kaye Lollar, July 3, 1976 and had just celebrated 40 years together. Bubba was an avid athlete and sports enthusiast of hunting, golf, tennis, pool, football and softball. He enjoyed his daily games of dominoes with some of his life-long friends. Bubba was known for his beautiful singing voice and sang at many services he performed in the family business. He never met a stranger and everyone he met was entertained by his stories, sometimes hysterical tales, both appropriate and inappropriate. However, coming from Bubba, these colorful descriptive terms were often overlooked. His ability to butcher the English language will forever remain in the memories of his family and friends. These were fondly known as “Bubbaisms.” He had an infectious laugh that was often distinguished by the snort at the end! He was a true friend and a very generous husband, father and grandfather. He loved his family and friends with all of his heart and they will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Larry McCraw. He is survived by his loving wife of forty years, Judith. His six children, Mark North and wife Jannes, Robyn North, Carolyn Busker, James Christopher North, Sean Ward and Shay Lynn and husband Lance Finley. Twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Brothers Bill North, Jack North and wife Sandie, and sister Idanel McCraw. Numerous nieces and nephews and many beloved friends. The family would like to thank the ICU staff at Abilene Regional Medical Center and Dr. David McCain for the wonderful care given to Bubba. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of their choice.