James Neal Carson

July 6, 1943 - July 17, 2025

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, James Neal Carson "Pop" went to be with the Lord on July 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted child of God who lived his life with strength, deep faith, and an unwavering love for his family.

James was born on July 6, 1943, in Durant, Oklahoma, to the late George and Roy Sue Carson. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, LaNeal Duke Carson, and his brothers, LeRoy Carson and Gene Carson and survived by Gene's wife, Joann Carson.

James is deeply missed by his three sons: Brady Carson, Bodie Carson and his wife Kimberley, and Brann Carson and his wife Gina. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Mitchell Carson, Alyssa Carson Updegrove, Kyndall Carson, and Kamryn Carson. He also has three great grandchildren: Parker, McKenzie and Ben Updegrove.

A long-time member of Champion Forest Baptist Church, James served faithfully as a greeter and worked in the Family Life Center. He was known for his warm smile, kind heart, and genuine love for people. He was also dearly loved by his special friends at Paradise Springs, where he shared laughter, love, fellowship, and friendship.

James had a passion for sports and spent many years working with youth sports as coach and swim instructor and head of the local Little League in Lubbock TX. He was a loyal fan of the Cowboys, Texans, Astros and most importantly the Texas Tech Red Raiders. There was nothing he enjoyed more than watching his grandchildren excel in their extra-curricular activities. His joy in life came from encouraging others and cheering them on—whether on the field or in everyday life.

Professionally and personally, James was committed to excellent customer service. He treated every person—family, friend, or stranger—with respect, care, and compassion.

He was a dedicated and loving husband, known for his steady heart and unwavering devotion. As a father, he led with quiet strength, and as a grandfather, his grandchildren brought endless joy and pride to his life. James shared warmth, guidance, and a generous spirit with everyone he met. His life was a reflection of love, faith, compassion, dedication, and a giving heart—qualities that continue to inspire all who had the blessing of knowing him. He had a BIG heart-one that in the end just couldn't keep up with his vibrant personality.

His legacy of Faith, Kindness, and Love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a Heart Foundation of your choice such as the American Heart Association or the Alpha Phi Foundation in James's memory.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 25, in the chapel of Champion Forest Baptist Church, 15555 Stuebner Airline Rd., Houston, TX 77069. Friends are welcome to visit with the family beginning at 1 p.m.

Following the service, a reception will be held in the activity room of Paradise Springs Retirement Community, 5600 Cypresswood Dr., Spring, TX 77379.