James Wiley Stockwell

James "Jim" Wiley Stockwell, 93, of McKinney, Texas, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, went home to be with his Lord on Thursday, August 20, 2026. He passed away peacefully in McKinney, surrounded by his loved ones.

Jim was born in McKinney on October 1,1932, to Nila Maureen Funderburgh and Clarence E. Stockwell. He was an only child, and grew up surrounded by cousins, aunts, and uncles on the Funderburgh family farm in the Forest Grove community of Lucas, Texas. His early years, spent among family and working on the farm, shaped his strong work ethic, independence, devotion to family, and natural ability to connect with people throughout his life.

He attended Lovejoy Elementary and middle school before continuing his education at Crozier Technical Institute, later known as Dallas High School. While in school, he worked for Neiman Marcus and Wyatt Food Stores, gaining valuable business and customer service experience. He also participated in ROTC, which strengthened his interest in military service. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1951, and completed basic training at Fort Hood, rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant, and served for two years during the Korean War as a tank commander. While stationed in Korea, he entertained fellow troops in the field with his band, Jim Stockwell and the Foxhole Playboys. He was also associated with a MASH unit, where his music helped lift the spirits of those serving alongside him.

On January 7, 1956, Jim married Donna Lucille Paulson at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Dallas. Donna was the love of his life, and their 70-year marriage was the foundation of a life centered on faith, family, and love. They were longtime members of Zion Lutheran Church and School in Dallas and later joined Our Savior Lutheran Church in McKinney. He sang in the church choir for more than 60 years. Together, Jim and Donna enjoyed square and polka dancing, bowling in the church bowling league, playing tennis, and water skiing. He also enjoyed golf, dominoes and card games with friends, and sharing his love of music by playing the guitar at special events, social gatherings, and local nursing homes.

Following his military service, he worked in photography before beginning a long career in the jewelry business. He entered the management program at Gordon's Jewelers, later owned and operated Highland Park Jewelry Store, and also worked with the Zale Corporation and Corrigan's Jewelers. In 1983, he retired from the jewelry business and moved with Donna and their children from Dallas to an acreage in North McKinney. He later entered the automotive detail industry and eventually established his own detail shop and distribution business in McKinney.

He was active in his church and community throughout his life. He was a member of the Dallas Jaycees and Junior Chamber of Commerce. He and Donna also traveled in their RV as members of the Collin County Travelers and served on the board of directors for the McKinney Community Concert Association for 20 years.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Stockwell of McKinney; his son, Scott Stockwell and wife Paula of Allen; and his daughter, Patricia Gorman and husband Paul of McKinney. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joshua Stockwell of Commerce, Lily Gorman of Dallas, Thomas Stockwell and wife Elannine of Greenville, Abby Gorman of Frisco; his great-grandson, Waylon Stockwell, and many cherished cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Above all, Jim will be remembered for the tremendous joy he brought wherever he went. He truly never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. His gift of gab, larger-than-life stories, quick wit, and famously corny jokes made every gathering brighter. Those who knew him will especially remember his laugh. It was big, genuine, contagious, and impossible to forget. It filled a room and made everyone else want to laugh with him. He had a rare ability to make people feel welcome, included, and happy simply to be in his presence.

His family will miss him deeply, but they will carry forward his stories, his love of music, his laughter, and the joy he shared so freely throughout his 93 years. Memorials can be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church and Preschool.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 2708 Virginia Parkway, McKinney, Texas 75071. The funeral service will also be held at Our Savior Lutheran Church on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Fitzhugh Cemetery at Forest Grove, 2540 Country Club Road, Lucas, Texas 75002.

A remarkable and beautiful life, filled with faith, family, and so much laughter.

Forever loved, Forever Remembered.

Please Follow the link to view the live stream : https://www.youtube.com/live/rVgETUuka94 

Services entrusted to Charles W. Smith & Sons Funeral Homes.