James Voiles “Uncle Bubba” Fitzpatrick, 91, of Beaumont, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 27, 2016, in his home. He was born on January 19, 1925, in Beaumont, to Rose Alice Gallaher Fitzpatrick and James H. Fitzpatrick.
Fitzpatrick graduated from Kirwin High School (now Ball High), in Galveston, in May of 1943. As a World War II veteran, he served as a Sergeant in the United States Army as Tec 5 in the Asiatic Pacific Theater of Operation, where he was awarded a Bronze Star, a Philippine Liberation Ribbon, a Good Conduct Medal, a Victory Medal and three Overseas Service Bars. After WWII, Fitzpatrick served in the Enlisted Reserve Cops of the United States Army and was called to active duty during the Korean War where he served his country until 1951.
Fitzpatrick began his career at U.S. Steel prior to WWII and returned to the company after years of service in the U.S. Army. After retiring from U.S. Steel he tirelessly served the Beaumont community and his family.
He was passionate about his faith, family, everything Fine Arts, humor, gardening and fitness. Fitzpatrick served as a Docent at the Beaumont Museum of Art, a long-time volunteer at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital and St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica. His many contributions to the community and generous, loving spirit will long be remembered by all who knew him, especially the family members he leaves behind.
Fitzpatrick is survived by sixteen nieces and nephews in the Russell and Edwards’ families of Stowell, Texas; twenty six great-nieces and nephews; and eleven great-great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Yvonne Fitzpatrick Edwards and Rose Marie Fitzpatrick Russell.
A gathering of Mr. Fitzpatrick’s family and friends will be from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 30, 2016, at Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 30, 2016, at St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica, 700 Jefferson Street, Beaumont, with his interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont.
Pallbearers will be Barrett Law, Cade Russell, Dean Kennemer, John William Schneider, Porter Edwards, and Mayes Middleton.
