James Kenneth Rose was born on August 27, 1941, in Wall, Texas, and passed away on March 11, 2026. He grew up in Lowake after his family moved there, attending Paint Rock Schools where he was active in the 4-H Club, helped on the family farm, and participated faithfully in church activities.
In 1965, James married the love of his life, Ollema Davis, in Sterling City, Texas. The couple made their home first in Abilene, where their sons Kyle and Kenneth were born, before relocating to Ballinger in 1972. James began his banking career at Citizens National Bank and later joined Farmers & Merchants State Bank, where he formed many meaningful relationships while continuing his lifelong connection to farming and the land near Rowena.
James and Ollema were longtime members of First Baptist Church in Ballinger for 54 years. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, he served in many ways—working with the children’s choir, teaching Sunday School, serving as a deacon, and ministering through Kairos Prison Ministry. After retiring from banking in 2011, he devoted his time to his faith, his family, his farm, and his community, volunteering at the food pantry, delivering meals to those in need, and offering quiet, consistent support to others.
James is survived by his loving wife, Ollema Rose; his sons, Kyle and Kenneth; and numerous beloved family members including Jenny Rose, sister Linda Lane, sister-in-law Edna Burnett, niece Kathryn Moerbe, nephew Randy Burnett, and nephew Charlie Burnett. He is also survived by grandchildren Madison Rose, Arden Rose, Mary Mehaffey, Jonathon McAlpin, Nathan McAlpin, and Sarah McAlpin and great-grandchildren Thomas David Mehaffey, Lilith McAlpin, and Brynleigh McAlpin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Elda Rose of Rowena. A people person to his core, James cherished deep conversations, remembered others’ stories, and lived a life marked by trustworthiness, generosity, and quiet strength.
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