James was born on February 20, 1949 in Groveton, Texas to parents, James Clifton and Lena Best. He was the second youngest of six children, and the only boy. After high school he joined the Army where he served for two years and received a medal for being an expert marksman. He worked thirteen years as a machinist before earning his title as a Correctional Officer with The Texas Department of Criminal Justice. He retired from TDCJ after twenty years, then went on to work as a Correctional Officer with ICE for seven years.

James loved his cars, his dogs, hunting, but most of all God and his family. Of all the good things that could be said about who he was, and the life he lived, the most significant was him giving his life to the Lord on September 28, 1978. Because of that one single decision, his wife, daughters, and grandchild have given theirs to the Lord as well! What a blessing we have knowing he is with his Lord and Savior!

Survivors include his wife, Jolene Best, sister and brother-in-law, Willie and Bobby Getschmann, daughters and sons-in-law, Darcey and Junior Jordan, Connie and Michael Hatley, grandchildren, Kristy Luna, Nolan Jordan, Cheyanne Billiot, Sawyer Jordan, Macie Hatley, and Eden Hatley, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his dad and mom, James Clifton and Lena Best, sisters and brothers-in-law, Ruby and Jack Maxey, Ruth Fletcher, Martha and Junior Huggins, and, Mildred and Joe Hutsen.