"Gator" James Westmoreland

James Westmoreland, known as Gator to his friends and family, passed away on September 11, 2024, in Mabank, Texas. He was born on December 20, 1966, in Houston, Texas to parents Jackie Ray and Leta Jane (Webb) Westmoreland.

Gator was a man who not only embraced life but put his heart and soul into everything he did. For most of his life, Gator carved out a name for himself as a framing carpenter. If there was one thing he loved more than his craft, it was taking pride in the work he did. He worked many jobs in and out of town, but you can bet he approached them all with the same dedication and passion that defined him.

Gator wasn’t just a carpenter; he was also pretty much the king of good times. He had an uncanny ability to make people laugh—whether cracking jokes, creating silly nicknames, or pulling little stunts that sometimes strayed into the “inappropriate” territory. But honestly, if you were one of the lucky ones touched by his humor, you knew it came from a place of love. He thrived on making people happy and lived for the smiles he could create.

Those who really got to know him saw how deep his love ran for his family. His kids were truly the center of his universe—his proudest accomplishments, no doubt. Gator had this incredible knack for being there for his family, anytime and every time they needed him. He might’ve had a tough exterior when it came to meeting new people, but once he formed connections he would do anything and everything for those he loved and cherished.

In his leisure time, Gator adored watching wrestling with his son—it was like their weekly ritual, and you can bet there was always some epic commentary going on. He also loved playing pool, win or lose; it was all about the competition and camaraderie. Another passion of Gator’s was football, he was devoted to the Dallas Cowboys and watched every game with the zeal of a true fan.

Gator also had a heart for community service. For four years straight, he threw himself into the Team Mikey Benefit, dedicating his time to helping others as much as he could. It wasn’t just about showing up; it was about making a difference, and he did that with pure joy.

Gator was a funny guy, loving family man, and the kind of person who knew that at the end of the day, it’s all about love, laughter, and the memories we create. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Gator is preceded in death by his parents, Jackie Ray and Leta Jane Westmoreland; brother, Glen Leo Matthews; and his nephew, Rowdy Lynn Matthews. 

Gator is survived by his loving wife, Staci Willingham of Mabank, Texas; daughter, Jamie Westmoreland of Eustace, Texas; son, William Chase Westmoreland of Greenville, Texas; son, Tyler Westmoreland of Mabank, Texas; grandson, Michael Darby of Eustace, Texas; brother, Dennis Matthews of Gun Barrel City, Texas; brother, J.R. Matthews of Eustace, Texas; sister, Bobbie Pierce of Mabank, Texas; as well as numerous, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many friends.