James Allen Rester, 86, passed away at home on May 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 7, 1938, in Poplarville, Mississippi, Jim, as he was known by his friends, loved God, his Family and his Country.

James served in the US Army as an enlisted man for 9 years, prior to attending OCS and flight school to become a helicopter pilot. He served 2 tours in Vietnam earning the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, one for Valor, Army Commendation Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross and 2 Purple Hearts. He then taught flight school and tactics at Fort Wolters Army Airfield in Texas. After leaving the Army, He went on to fly commercial helicopters until re tirement. After the Army, James returned home to Mississippi, bought a commercial hog farm, operated a Purina Feed Store and settled back into his hometown. The flying bug was in his blood, and he soon returned to flying and moved to Texas to follow his dream job.

He loved the outdoors, history, travel and building with wood. He liked to say he was a Jack-of-all-trades, but master of none. He taught his children to follow the Lord, and stand up for what you believe in. He followed his father's footsteps by becoming an ordained Baptist minister and performed the marriage ceremonies for some of his children and family friends alike.

James is preceded in death by his first wife of 51 years, Emily Ruth, sisters Margaret and Betty. He is survived by his second love, his wife Donna Maria Rester, siblings, Harold, Deborah, and Elaine, 6 children, Kathy, Kim, Karen, Patrick, Kendall and Kristy, 16 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, Texas. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. A private family gathering will also be held in Mississippi at a TBD date.

The family asks in Honor of James' service to and love of this country, that you please dress casual and wear something patriotic. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1127, P.O. Box 605, Columbus TX 78934, scholarship fund.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.

Henneke Funeral Home, Columbus, Texas