James Edward Fairchild

James Edward "Papa James" Fairchild passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on August 24, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas. He was born on August 18, 1956, in Bellflower, Illinois, to Robert Clarice Fairchild and Lola Mae Williams.

James graduated from Bellflower Township High School in 1974, where he ran cross country. Over the years, he built a life centered around hard work, family, faith, and the simple things that brought him happiness.

James married Sharon Kay Pitts, and together they shared 35 years of life. On September 23, 2016, he married Barbara Elaine Bryan, and they shared the next 10 years together. When James and Barbara married, he welcomed her daughters into his heart and embraced them as his own. Together, they also helped raise two of their grandchildren for the past 12 years.

To know James was to know a man with a generous heart, a quick sense of humor, and just enough sarcasm and ornery spirit to keep those around him on their toes. But beneath that humor was a man who loved deeply and gave freely to the people who mattered most to him.

James was especially devoted to his grandchildren. He loved spending time with them, playing games, making memories, and simply being there for them. They lovingly called him "Papa James," a name that became a special part of who he was and a reflection of the place he held in their lives.

For the past five years, James worked as the Parts Manager for White Transportation. When he wasn't working, he enjoyed the things that made life enjoyable-fishing, golfing, playing games, and grilling good food for his family. He loved sports of all kinds and especially enjoyed following the Chicago Cubs and Texas Tech athletics.

James was a man of faith and attended Prodigal Church. His faith, family, and friendships were important parts of his life, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, generosity, and countless memories.

James is survived by his wife, Barbara Fairchild; daughters, Stephanie Whitney and Christy Scott and her husband, Christopher; brother, Robert Jordan and his wife, Nancy; sisters, Carol Joe Smith, Judie Francis, and Mae Eichelberger, 6 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Clarice Fairchild and Lola Mae Williams, and his brothers, John Jordan and Tom Jordan.

A memorial service celebrating James's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Prodigal Church, 10306 Indiana Avenue, Lubbock, Texas 79423.

James will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew and loved him. His greatest legacy will be found in the family he loved so fiercely, the grandchildren who knew him as Papa James, and the memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter for years to come