James Tuma

James Franklin Tuma was born October 29, 1936 in Caldwell, TX to Elvera Newcomb Tuma and Jerry Alvin Tuma. James passed away on December 17, 2019 in Waxahachie, TX. His family moved to Dallas where he graduated in the first graduating class from South Oak Cliff High School in 1955. He served in the United States Army from 1959-1962. Jim started his career in construction with his uncle and worked for O’Roark Construction and later Henry C. Beck General Contractors, later known as BECK, until his retirement. He was the General Superintendent on Reunion Arena, Hulen Mall, Continental Plaza, JC Penny Headquarters, Grapevine Mills Mall, City Place, and Nasher Sculpture Center, among many others. After retiring he volunteered his assistance with the building of the Ellis County SPCA shelter and tended to his cattle and thoroughly enjoyed his time at Cedar Creek Lake.

Mr. Tuma was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Waxahachie and a former city councilperson with The City of Oak Leaf. He was an honorary member of the Hella Shrine Clowns.

Mr. Tuma is survived by his wife of 37 years, Gayle, daughter Andrea Townley and her husband Tony of Dawson, TX and son James Tuma Jr. and fiancé Tina Cleghorn of Antlers, OK. Five beloved grandchildren Tony Townley Jr. and wife Heather, Candice Lankford, James Tuma III and wife Blanca and Jared Tuma and wife Carrie, Nikki Wyma  and four beautiful great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, his brother Andrew, twin brother Julian and granddaughter Lauren.

Friends and family are encouraged to gather for a time of visitation on Sunday, December 22, 2019 from 6 to 8 in the evening at Wayne Boze Funeral Home. Services celebrating Mr. Tuma’s life will be held on Monday, December 23, 2019 at 2 o’clock in the afternoon at the First United Methodist Church of Waxahachie with Rev. Dr. Kevin Tully officiating. Mr. Tuma will be laid to rest in the Red Oak Cemetery following services.

Memorials may be made to the Ellis County SPCA, 2570 FM 878, Waxahachie, TX 75165, First United Methodist Church, 505 W. Marvin Ave, Waxahachie, TX 75165 or a charity of your choice in Mr. Tuma’s name.

Arrangements especially for the Tuma Family by Wayne Boze Funeral Home. 1826 W. Hwy 287 Business, Waxahachie, TX 75165. 972-923-2700 www.waynebozefuneralhome.com