James Gerard Lopez, of Beaumont, died Sunday, October 5, 2014, at Harbor Hospice in Beaumont. He was born May 15, 1955, in Beaumont, to Milton Lopez, Sr. and Ann Broussard Lopez. Around 1980 he moved to Crystal Beach and remained there until Hurricane Ike brought him back to Beaumont.
James graduated from Msgr. Kelly High School in 1973 and earned his degree in drafting from Lamar State College. He had been employed at Gulf Coast Auto Auction for about seventeen years. While in high school, James lettered three years in varsity golf and earned many awards. He remained an avid golfer throughout his lifetime and loved to collect golf memorabilia. He was constantly looking for new items to bring home.
A close second to golf was his abiding love of music. He never missed the opportunity to attend a concert or search second hand shops for that illusive vinyl from another time. He was well known for his extensive knowledge of music trivia.
Beyond all else, “Uncle Jim” was completely devoted to his family. James always loved unconditionally, and he dearly loved and cared for his nieces and nephew, and was a beloved brother, son, uncle and friend.
Survivors include sisters, Cindy Giglio and her husband, Dr. Sam Giglio, Jr., of Beaumont and Peggy Knoblock of League City; a brother, Milton Lopez, Jr. of Galveston; nephew, Damian Giglio and his wife, Nicole, of Highland Village, Texas; nieces, Delia Giglio and Netty Giglio of Beaumont, Ellie Giglio of Manvel, Texas, and Ashley Nardiello and her husband, Chris, of Houston; great-nephew, Asher Giglio; and great-nieces, Erin and Jenna Gonzales.
He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Stephen James Lopez; and niece, Katrina Gonzales.
A gathering of Mr. Lopez’s family and friends will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, October 9, 2014, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 10, 2014, at Broussard’s, with Reverend Stephen McCrate officiating. His entombment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Beaumont.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camp Niwana, 350 FM 256 North, Woodville, Texas 75979.
The Lopez and Giglio families would like to express their gratitude to Fr. Emmanuel and the nurses and medical staff of Christus St. Elizabeth and Harbor Hospice for the loving care provided to James during his illness.
