James Kenneth Rose

James Kenneth Rose was born on August 27, 1941, and passed away on March 11, 2026.

James is survived by his loving wife, Ollema Rose; his sons, Kyle and Kenneth; and numerous beloved family members including Jenny Rose, sister Linda Lane, sister-in-law Edna Burnett, niece Kathryn Moerbe, nephew Randy Burnett, and nephew Charlie Burnett. He is also survived by grandchildren Madison Rose, Arden Rose, Mary Mehaffey, Jonathon McAlpin, Nathan McAlpin, and Sarah McAlpin and great grandchildren Thomas David Mehaffey, Lilith McAlpin, and Brynleigh McAlpin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Elda Rose of Rowena.

James was born in Wall, Texas, and his family later moved to Lowake, where he grew up and attended Paint Rock Schools. During his school years, he was very active in the 4-H Club, helped on his family farm, and regularly participated in church activities.

James married the love of his life, Ollema Davis, on January 30, 1965, in Sterling City, Texas. The couple made their home in Abilene, where James began his career in banking at Citizens National Bank. Their first son, Kyle, was born on September 12, 1967, and their second son, Kenneth, was born on January 21, 1970.

In 1972, James relocated his family to Ballinger after accepting a position with Farmers & Merchants State Bank. This move brought him closer to the family farm in Rowena and allowed him to pursue his passion for farming while raising his family in a close-knit community of like-minded people.

James and Lema joined First Baptist Church in Ballinger and faithfully maintained their membership there for 54 years. Through his years with Farmers & Merchants, James formed many meaningful relationships and cherished the opportunities and life experiences that came through his work.

Although James loved farming, raising livestock, and working the land, his true passion was his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Whether working with the children’s choir, participating in Sunday School, serving as a church deacon, or ministering through Kairos Prison Ministry, James loved serving God and leading others by word, example, and prayer.

James retired from banking in 2011 and devoted the remainder of his life to serving God, his community, his family, and his friends. He spent his time working on the farm, volunteering at the food pantry, serving his church, and delivering meals to friends in need.

James Rose was truly a “people person.” He loved visiting with others about family, the weather, crops, Christ, and occasionally business. He took pride in knowing people—not just their names, but their backstories. James was a trusted confidant whose word could always be counted on. He held his friends, customers, and coworkers in the highest regard and was always willing to help others, even when it required personal sacrifice.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026, in the chapel at Lange Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 10:30 a.m., officiated by Marty Akins. Interment will follow the service in a private family ceremony.

The family would like to express a special thank you to Hospice of San Angelo, Dr. Linda Hitchcock, Shannon Home Care and Maria Camarillo for their compassionate care and support.