In Loving Memory Of

James “Jimbo” Calvin Butcher passed away on June 27, 2026, while in hospice care at Cimarron Place Nursing Home.

James was born on February 18, 1947, in Brownsville, Texas. As an infant, he was diagnosed with cyanosis, commonly known as “blue baby syndrome,” a condition that was difficult to treat in the 1940s. In faith and hope for his healing, his mother made a promise to Our Lady of San Juan del Valle. James went on to live a full and remarkable life, a blessing his family always cherished. The only son among five children, James spent his childhood surrounded by his sisters, sharing many adventures and memories.

James enlisted in the United States Army in 1966 and later joined the United States Marine Corps, serving with the 2nd Battalion in 1967 during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to the nation by serving 25 years in the United States Army National Guard.

James met the love of his life, Rafaela, at a dance at Memorial Coliseum. They married and began a devoted life together that lasted nearly 59 years. After returning from the war, James worked at the Gladys Porter Zoo, caring for reptiles and primates as a zookeeper. Later, James and his family moved to Corpus Christi in 1974, where he dedicated 33 years of service to the City of Corpus Christi Animal Control Department.

After retiring, he continued serving others as a disaster relief volunteer with the American Red Cross Coastal Bend Chapter for 20 years. In recognition of his dedication and compassion, he received numerous honors, including the Disaster Preparedness Volunteer Award and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024.

James enjoyed fishing on Padre Island, gardening, working on home improvement projects, and searching for treasures and bargains at local pawn shops. He had a deep respect for his fellow Vietnam veterans and faithfully attended funeral services for veterans who had no family to honor them. He was also a proud member of the Veterans Round Table of Corpus Christi.In 2024, James was diagnosed with throat cancer and received treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He entered remission, and his family is deeply grateful to the physicians, nurses, and staff who gave them one more precious year with him.

James is survived by his loving wife, Rafaela Butcher; his children, Rachel Soliz, Theresa Lindseth, James Anthony Butcher, Maria (Brenden) Campbell, and Jim Fredrick Butcher II (Erica Salinas); his sisters, Rachel D. Fester and Gladys (Fernando) Fernandez; his seven grandchildren, Veronica (Martin) Bazan, Ivy Butcher, Jonathan (Maura) Cervantes, Pablo Campbell, Ezekiel Butcher, Destiny Campbell, and Abigail Butcher; his two great-grandchildren, Zachariah and Isaiah Bazan; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whom he dearly loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rachel Lopez and James Fredrick Butcher, and his sisters, Harriet, Mary, and Shirley Butcher.James will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his faithful service to his country and community, his generous heart, and his commitment to ensuring that no veteran was forgotten. His legacy of kindness, strength, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Service Information

Visitation will be held on July 7th at Guardian Funeral Home from 4pm-8pm. Visitation will continue at 9am on July 8th at Guardian Funeral Home. The Funeral Service is scheduled for 11am. Funeral Procession will depart at 12:15 to The Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery for a 1pm.