Leslie Charles James, 69, of North Richland Hills, Texas, entered into the arms of his Lord and Savior on March 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Leslie was born on March 21, 1956, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Mildred and Clayburn James. He graduated from Haltom High School before pursuing higher education at the University of North Texas, where he earned a Doctorate in Education Administration. Leslie dedicated his life to faith, family, and service, always striving to honor God in all that he did.

On April 9, 1976, Leslie married the love of his life, Michelle Harris. Together, they built a home centered on faith, love, and devotion to God. Leslie was a man of strong Christian values, and his life was a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and integrity.

Leslie began his career as a special education teacher, where he championed the belief that students with special needs should learn alongside their peers. His passion for inclusive education led him to serve in various roles, ultimately becoming Assistant Superintendent of Fort Worth ISD. Even after retiring from the public school system, Leslie continued his mission, serving as the executive director of an educational nonprofit organization and consulting with school districts across Texas and the southwestern United States. His work left a lasting impact on countless students, teachers, and communities.

Beyond his career, Leslie had a deep love for the outdoors. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and exploring with his sons and grandchildren, cherishing every adventure spent in nature. He also had a passion for travel, with his trips to Israel and Normandy standing out as particularly meaningful experiences. No matter where life took him, Leslie’s greatest happiness was found in time spent with his family.

Leslie had a servant’s heart and a deep love for ministry. He was dedicated to serving in his church in various roles, including as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and in other capacities where he could share his faith and love for the Lord. He was a member of CrossCreek Church in Colleyville, Texas, where he found great joy in serving in the Children’s Ministry.

Leslie was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his mother, Mildred James; his beloved wife of almost 49 years, Michelle; his son Jerod and his wife, Tawnya, along with their children, Hunter, Kaylee, Brynlee, and Preslee; and his son Brandon and his wife, Kristin, and their children, Barrett, Owen, and Ava. He is also survived by his sister Rhonda Jameson and her husband, Wade; his sister Renee; Mother and Father In Law, Nada and Bob Horn; and many other extended family members who loved him dearly.

A celebration of Leslie’s life will be held at CrossCreek Church on April 5, 2025 at 2:00 pm and livestreamed at https://www.crosscreekchurch.com/funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following organization in honor of Leslie’s passion for ministry and service:

CrossCreek Church’s Big Give, the church planting and missions ministry of CrossCreek Network, dedicated to planting new disciple-making churches around the world. Donations can be made at https://pushpay.com/g/crosscreekchurch. Please email [email protected] to inform them of your donation in Leslie’s honor.