James Randolph Cleere Jr.

May 20, 1924 - February 1, 2019

DAY FUNERAL HOME James “Jim” Randolph Cleere, Jr. James “Jim” Randolph Cleere, Jr., 94, of Midway, passed away February 1, 2019, in Madisonville. Jim was born May 20, 1924, in Madisonville, Texas, to James Randolph Cleere, Sr. and Mary Katherine Traylor Cleere. He graduated from Madisonville High School and enlisted in the United States Navy where he honorably served his country for three years during World War II. Upon leaving the Navy, he met his wife, Ferrell, on a Greyhound Bus to Tyler in 1946. They fell in love, lived in love, and enjoyed marriage for more than 71 years. Jim worked at Suniland Furniture in Houston, Texas, as a manager and designer until he retired to his land in Midway, Texas. Jim was an amazing and caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and Christian man. He was a great example of how to live life and follow Christ. Jim always spoke fondly and admirably of his time in the United States Navy during World War II. He was also passionate about his family, his Christian faith, and candy. He is preceded in death by his parents, James Randolph Cleere Sr. and Mary Katherine Traylor Cleere and his sister Lettie Ann Owen. Jim is survived by his wife Ferrell Cleere; sister Mary Elizabeth Durst; daughter Celia Hamilton and son-in law Max Hamilton of Midway, Texas; his grandchildren James Hamilton and his wife Kristen Hamilton; Crystal Adams and husband Jason Adams; Mary Katherine Nye and husband Roger Nye. Great-grandchildren Ashlyn Hamilton, Kolby Adams, Grayson Nye, Kinzley Nye, and Madelyn Nye. He is also survived by his son James Randolph Cleere III and wife Cathy Cleere of Anderson, Texas; grandchildren Jason Cleere and wife Kristi Cleere; Travis Cleere and wife Ashley Cleere; Jennifer Lavergne and husband Lance Lavergne. Great-grandchildren Kendel Cleere, Kanin Cleere, Mayson Cleere, Grayson Cleere, Austin Lavergne, and Landon Lavergne. Visitation will be held at Day Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at 10am. Funeral services will follow at 11am with burial at the Madisonville City Cemetery with military honors. Services will be officiated by his grandson James Hamilton. Jim loved his time in the United States Navy, was proud of his service, and supported all causes for veterans. To honor his memory, memorials may be given to the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org) at 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300; Jacksonville, FL 32256.