It is with great sadness that the family of James D. Sumrall announce his passing, after a lengthy illness, on Saturday, September 1, 2018.
James was born on October 30, 1955 in Spring Valley, New York. He grew up in Irving, Texas and graduated from MacArthur High School in 1974. Following high school, James earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1982.
It was James’ honor to serve as a police detective for the City of Arlington from 1983-2010. He served alongside the APD Robbery Unit and as a task force officer for other specialized units. During his tenure, James received many awards and commendations including a Certificate of Merit (1991), Distinguished Service Award (1992) and Community Service Award (1993). James retired from the Arlington Police Department in 2010.
James enjoyed fishing at the White River with his son, Jason; father-in-law, Marcus; and cousin, Ross. He loved the many golf trips he took with his officer buddies and enjoyed serving at Lakeside Loaves and Fishes. James and Teresa were fortunate enough to be able to take several trips to Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean and many other beautiful locations. Traveling was one of their favorite hobbies to share together. James had just recently taken up the hobby of building trains. He was hoping to share his love for this activity with his grandchildren, Gracie and Wyatt. He was in the process of building “the town of Wyatt,” which included “Gracie’s Feed & Grain Store.”
James is survived by his wife, Teresa Sumrall; his daughter Kristine Stafford, and her husband Ryan; his son Jason Sumrall, and his wife Alexandria; mother, Gerena Sumrall; his sister Paula Dougherty, and her husband Chris; niece, Jennifer Talley; grandchildren, Gracie and Wyatt Sumrall; and great nephew, David Rice. James was preceded in death by his father, James D. Sumrall Sr.
Funeral service: 11:00am Thursday, September 6, 2018, Lakeside Baptist Church
Visitation: 6:00-8:00pm Wednesday, September 5, 2018, Wiley Funeral Home
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Loaves and Fishes at Lakeside Baptist Church, the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association.