James Mason Wortham

James Mason Wortham, 82, of Amarillo died Saturday, November 17, 2012 in Amarillo. Memorial services will be at 2:00 PM Saturday at Golden Plains Church of Christ with Paul Camp, pastor officiating. Arrangements are by Rector Funeral Home Osage Chapel, 2800 S. Osage St. Mr. Wortham was born in Cash, Arkansas on January 7, 1930 to Garland and Ruth (Reneau) Wortham. He moved to Amarillo at the age of seven, and graduated from Amarillo High School in 1949. Mr. Wortham was a standout Golden Gloves boxer. He was a middleweight state finalist in 1950 and 1951. He was also honorably discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps. Mr. Wortham worked for the City of Amarillo Fire Department for 40 years. He retired in 1990 as the District Fire Chief. Mr. Wortham was a long time member and Elder of Golden Plains Church of Christ. He married Nelda ""Spud"" Wyre in Amarillo on August 10, 1950. He was preceded in death by his wife in 2008. He was also preceded in death by a brother and two sisters. He is survived by his son, Dr. Barry Wortham and his wife Becki of San Antonio; a sister, Martha Coble of Amarillo; two granddaughters, Ashley Wortham and Courtney Wortham both of Austin and a grandson, James Mason Wortham of San Antonio. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be to Eastern European Mission Fund in care of Golden Plains Church of Christ, 4700 Interstate 40 West, Amarillo, Texas 79106.