James Lee Vinita

JAMES LEE VINITA

MCALLEN - James Lee Vinita, 62, was born on November 11, 1963, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Jimmy Lee and Joyce Elaine Vinita. He was their firstborn and only son.
James attended junior high school in Stilwell, Oklahoma, where he became an accomplished tennis player. His talent was readily apparent, and local coaches often came to the family home to invite him to play.
In 1978, at the age of 14, he moved to Texas with his parents and sisters. He graduated from McAllen High School in 1982 and soon afterward married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Long.
James and Phyllis faithfully served as the first children's church directors at Abundant Grace Community Church. In 1987, they moved to Dallas, where James established his own painting business, Dallas Metroplex Painting.
While living in Dallas, James and Phyllis welcomed their two sons. James found great joy in being a father and cherished family vacations, especially traveling to Europe with Phyllis and taking the boys to Disney World. He delighted in playful moments, often getting on the floor with his sons and spinning them around in the recliner while "singing" the Batman theme song.
In time, they returned to the Rio Grande Valley to be closer to family. After returning home, James successfully completed a 12-step program and devoted himself to serving others in his community as a leader and sponsor. He mentored many young men and was nearing the celebration of ten years of sobriety.
James cherished watching Dallas Cowboys games with his father, Jim Vinita, and deeply valued the time they spent together. He was also a devoted son who provided steadfast support to his mother as she cared for his father during his final days.
James found great joy in being a grandfather to Samuel and Isaac. He treasured the time he spent with them and savored every moment.
James Lee Vinita entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior at 11:17 PM on Sunday, May 10, 2026, in McAllen, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. He fought the good fight of faith and finished his race with grace and courage.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis Vinita; his father, Jim Vinita; and his niece, Saylor Skaggs.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his sons, James Frank Vinita and his wife, Martha, and Dylan Cardwell Vinita; his mother, Joyce Vinita; his sisters, Joanna Walker and her husband, Jeff, Jacquie Marcelino and her husband, Roger, and Jennifer Skaggs and her husband, Lyle; his grandsons, Samuel Vinita and Isaac Vinita; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Abundant Grace Community Church, 2110 S. McColl Road, Edinburg, Texas, in the Main Sanctuary.
James will be lovingly remembered for his unwavering faith and servant's heart. His life stands as a testament to God's grace, perseverance, and love.
Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.