James Derrel Shead, Sr. was born in Homer, Louisiana on September 23, 1945 to James "Jimmy" Shead and Pidgie Harris Shead.
During his younger years, he and his mother relocated to Texarkana. He attended public school in the Rose Hill community. After graduating from Dunbar High School in 1963 he joined the United States Army. He served active duty for several years then reenlisted in the Army Reserve and retired with twenty plus years.
Derrel and Frances were high school sweethearts and married in January of 1966. Together, they raised five children – three sons and two daughters of their own and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Shead was a faithful member of the Hickory Hill Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening. In his younger years, he tried to raise any and every kind of animal: chickens, ducks, goats, sheep, cows, hogs, and anything else he could get his hands on. Often, he was called "Ol' McDonald" with the farm.
On Sunday morning, Mr. Shead completed his journey on this earth after a long and courageous fight. He leaves to cherish many precious memories: his wife of 54 years Frances Bland Shead; his children, Rodney McQueen, James "Boe" Shead, Jr. (ReShae'), Eric D. Shead, Ingrid Brown (Anthony) and Crystal Randle (Reginald); 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; special nephew/adopted son Marcus Jones (Ella); sister/cousin Gwen Green-Jones; brother/cousin Dave Dotson (Earnestine); several sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Viewing for Mr. Shead will be Wednesday, July 8, 2020 from 12-2 PM at Haynes Mortuary. Graveside services will be 10 AM Thursday, July 9, 2020 at Chapelwood Memorial Gardens. Online registration is available at www.haynesmortuary.com