James “Willie” Auldridge, devoted husband, loving father, and proud patriarch passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025 at his home in Denison, Texas surrounded by family.

He was born on March 7, 1948 at home in Ambrose, Texas to James Henry and Lanora (Meadows) Auldridge. James was the firstborn son in a large and loving family of siblings. Raised with strong values of hard work, faith, and family; James lived those principles every day of his life. He was a man of integrity – honest, dependable, and kind – and he brought that spirit into every role he held.

James spent more than five decades married to the love of his life, Velma, with whom he built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and resilience. Together, they raised a close-knit family and created a legacy that will live on through generations. A skilled tradesman and proud business owner, James successfully owned and operated his own alignment and mechanical shop, where his work ethic and reputation for fairness earned him the respect of his community.

Throughout his life, James faced and overcame many struggles with unwavering strength and faith. He was a pillar for his family, a source of wisdom, and a steady presence through good times and bad. His greatest joy was his family, and he took pride in his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great, great, grandfather.

James is survived by his wife Velma Lee Auldridge; sons, James Ben Auldridge of Denison, Christopher Harrison and wife Rena of Russellville, Arkansas and stepdaughter, Renee Burton of Hagarville, Arkansas. His great grandchildren Zachary Harrison, Katelyn Lee and husband Justin, Bailey and Madison Harrison plus great, great, grandson Lincoln James Lee. His brother Charlie and wife Penny Auldridge of Sadler, Texas and sisters, Jewel Henshaw of Ambrose, Barbara Daigle and Helen Clark both of Denison.

He was preceded in death by parents; son, Marvin Auldridge and daughter Delania Byrd; brothers, Ronnie, Earl, Donnie, Roger, and Carl Auldridge along with sisters, Dorthy Hayes, Doyle Shields, Margie Landers and Joyce Henshaw.

Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. on Friday August 8, 2025 at Hebron Cemetery, Bells, Texas. Visitation will be 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday August 7, 2025 at Mullican Little Funeral Home, Bells. Pallbearers will be Chris Harrison, Ben Auldridge, Charlie Auldridge, Steve Auldridge, Zachary Harrison and Justin Lee.

James will be remembered for his life of strength, humility and heart. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace and having left a legacy of love.