James Preston Polk

Funeral services for James Preston Polk, 68, of Hemphill, previously of Lufkin, Texas will be held Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. in the Worship Center of Lufkin First Assembly of God Family Church with Pastor Jeremy Yancey and Pastor Derek Hicks officiating. Interment will follow in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park.

James Preston Polk, born to John Marcus and Eva Mae (Willmon) Polk on January 16, 1947, celebrated his entrance into heaven on September 18, 2015 – the same day he celebrated 45 years of memories of a beautiful marriage with his life’s love, Wanda. Together they cherished the lives of their children and grandchildren, who were so richly blessed by his shining example of a Godly father and grandfather.

Having graduated from Lufkin High School with his beloved class of 1965, James then attended Southwestern Assemblies of God College in Waxahachie and SFA in Nacogdoches, Texas, before proudly and honorably serving his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Navy. He returned home, married his sweetheart on September 18, 1970, and lived and worked in Lufkin most of his life – contributing tirelessly to his family, his friends, the church and community for so many years. Rarely did he ever meet a single person who was not instantly drawn to his outgoing, friendly disposition and compassionate, caring generosity. He was called “friend” by countless numbers throughout his life. He loved attending his sons’ sporting events as they were growing up, and once served as president of their Baseball Farm League – what fun that was! His children were and will always be his pride and joy. To this day and onward, they continue to call him ‘The Best Dad Ever’! His grandchildren loved and adored him tremendously.

James was a faithful and dedicated lifelong member of First Assembly of God Church in Lufkin, Texas, where he served as prior deacon and board member. James was also an enthusiastic member of The Praise & Worship Team for many years, using his gifted voice to help lead the congregation into times of powerful worship to the God he loved, wanting others to share the same love. Having taught children’s Sunday School for a time alongside his loving wife, the couple also opened their home for times of fellowship and study of God’s word, forging friendships with those who have become like inseparable family members over the years. Almost two years ago James and Wanda moved to Toledo Bend Lake, near Hemphill, Texas to begin retirement, where they attended Hemphill Baptist Church; but would always call Lufkin ”home”. To say he will be painfully missed by all who knew and loved him is an understatement.

James is survived by his dedicated, adoring wife and best friend, Wanda (Hardy) Polk; sons, Eric Polk and wife Jodie, and Landon Polk and wife Shanna, all of Etoile; his beautiful granddaughters, Emily and Holly, who called him PopPop, while his adoring grandsons, Tyler and Dillon called him PawPaw; also several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Brittney, Ashley, Ottie Mae, LaFe, Addison, and Braxley; brother, Charles Polk of Amelia island, Florida; nephews, John Polk and Anthony Polk of Orlando, Florida; niece, Lauren Polk of Mooresville, North Carolina; and numerous other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John H. Polk in infancy; and his pre-deceased step-grandson Chris.

James’ sons, grandsons, and nephews will honorably serve as pallbearers.

The family will share memories of James from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening, September 22, 2015 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions will be accepted with love and appreciation to the following: Pleasant Hills Children’s Home, P.O. Box 1177 Fairfield, Texas 75840 or The Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

We have lost our warrior here on earth, but Heaven has gained a real trooper.
Proverbs 22:1 – If you must choose, take a good name rather than great riches; for to be held in loving esteem is better than silver and gold. (The Living Bible)

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.
Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.