James Earl Baldwin

James Earl Baldwin, 78, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026. A man of deep faith, strong family values, and simple pleasures, James lived a life defined by hard work, humility, and devotion to those he loved.

Born in Mexia, Texas, to Wiley Earl “Mack” Baldwin and Estelle Moody Baldwin, James was a proud native Texan who never felt the need to impress anyone. He was known for his straightforward nature and the belief that “what you see is what you get.”

James graduated from Leon High School in 1965. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University in 1970 and later received a Master’s degree from Sam Houston State University in 1982.

During his youth, James excelled in six-man football, earning the nickname “The Bear” because of his size, strength, and determination. He was also an active member of FFA and achieved the distinguished Lone Star Farmer Degree.

James dedicated 36 years of service to the Mexia State Supported Living Center, where he served as Vocational Director before retiring. His work reflected his passion for helping others and his commitment to his community.

Outside of work, James found joy in the simple things. He loved God, family, traditional country and bluegrass music. He enjoyed singing with family and friends at the Oletha Community Center, attending Shiloh Church of Christ, gathering around good food, crawfish boils, Nancy’s famous sourdough biscuits, and backyard barbecues.

He cherished life on Headsville Road, where he raised hogs and cattle, tended a garden, and enjoyed meals prepared in Nancy’s kitchen. His happiest moments were often spent surrounded by family, sharing stories, laughter, and music.

James was preceded in death by his son, James Richard “Jimmy” Baldwin; and parents, Mack and Estelle Baldwin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Nancy Kerby Baldwin; his daughter, Kristi Gibson and husband Gabriel; his stepson, Kerby Montgomery and wife Jolene; his stepdaughter, Molli Montgomery; his brother, Richard “Rick” Phillip Baldwin and wife Pam of Thornton, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, extended family members, and friends.

His grandchildren include:

Emily Brooke Watson
Tyler “Ty” Zane Baldwin
Trace Lane Baldwin
Austin Kade Watson
Jackson Hart Gibson
Grayson Shepperd Gibson
Justin Banks Campbell

Great Grandchildren
Liem Kade Matthews
Jayce Loyal Baldwin

James will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love of family, his honest character, and the simple life he built and treasured. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the family he loved so deeply.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Visitation with the family will be 5-7 p.m, Monday, June 8, 2026 at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home in Mexia.

A graveside service will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 9, 2026 int the Ferguson Cemetery with Coy Baldwin officiating.  Jackson Gibson, Kade Watson, Jeremy Williams, Cain Williams, Ben Baldwin, Trace Baldwin, Gabriel Gibson, Ty Baldwin, and Logan King will serve as pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Baldwin, Bradey Spivey, and Kerby Montgomery.