Texas, USA
April 11, 2014
Source: Texas Seed Trade Association
James Royce Reneau died in Shamrock and went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 11, 2014, at the age of 87. James was born on July 4, 1926, to George and Nora Reneau. He was the youngest of nine children. He attended and graduated from McLean schools. James graduated from Texas Tech College in 1950, with a Bachelor's of Science degree in agriculture. He served in the Army from October 1944 to August 1946, serving in France and Germany. James founded Reneau Seed Co., in 1959.
He was in the seed business for 54 years, selling to many foreign countries, local farmers, and surrounding states.
James traveled to 38 foreign countries selling seed, or peddling seed, as he called it. James had a good relationships in Korea for more than 30 years. He had previously farmed and worked in the oil fields.
James belonged to many organizations. He was a 32nd degree Mason, a member of the First United Methodist Church for more than 60 years, Scottish Rites, Shriners, American Legion, Booster Club, City Council and on the School Board for many years. He also belonged to the Texas Seed Trade Association, Southern & Western Seed Association, American Seed Trade Association, and International Seed Trade Association. Some of his favorite sayings were: When asked what he thought, he would say, "It takes a big dog to weigh a ton", "Keep your chin up and have a good one", "Keep whupping and spuring", and "If I were there would I be proud of you?"
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Nora Reneau; siblings, Clara Reneau, Frank Reneau, Arthur Reneau, Edith Stauffer, Mary Miller, Grace Hanner, Robert A. Reneau and Emma Kuykendall; his first wife, Louise; and a daughter, Susan.
Survivors include his wife, Betty; a daughter, Patricia Arnold and husband Scotty; stepdaughters, Leisa and Marcia; a stepson, David; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
The family suggest memorials be to First United Methodist Church in Shamrock or St. Jude's Childrens Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
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