James Carrol Henefey of D'Hanis, age 89, passed away Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in San Antonio.

Born on Halloween of 1934 in San Antonio, James was the oldest son of Jack and Vera Henefey. He graduated from Fox Tech High School in San Antonio.

He honorably served in the United States Navy on the USS Kearsarge from 1957 to 1959 as a machinist. Following his service, he worked as a sheet metal worker in San Antonio, contributing to the construction of over 30 buildings, most notably the Methodist Hospital, USAA, and Brooke Army Medical Center. During this time, he also spent evenings and weekends improving his ranch in D'Hanis.  He retired in 1993 after successfully and miraculously beating pancreatic cancer.

Following retirement, he and his wife moved to the ranch in D'Hanis, where he began to live the life he had always wanted. Jimmy was passionate about ranching, land improvement and could fix or build anything that may be needed. He always had projects going on -- building barns, rebuilding engines, fixing fences, or welding and crafting barbwire and horseshoe creations. For the past 50 years, he and his son, Justin, raised Hereford and now Angus cattle in D'Hanis where he could be found on the tractor, spraying brush, or riding his ATV to check cattle. He was never one to sit around, but if he was, it was only to read a book or watch a NASCAR race.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Janice Wolff Henefey; son, Justin and daughter-in-law Laurie of D'Hanis; daughter, Jennifer Henefey Oehler and son-in-law Ricky Oehler of New Braunfels. He gained a new title of Po Po when grandchildren Jacie and Jett Henefey were born.  He is also survived by sister, Mary Nell Swope of Spring and brother, Jack Henefey and wife Madeline of Santa Ana, TX.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Services will be Thursday, June 6, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, with Rosary recited at 9:30 a.m., followed by Memorial Mass at 10:00 a.m. Following the Mass, those who wish will gather at Holy Cross Cemetery for final prayers.

Arrangements under the direction of Guinn-Horger Funeral Home.