In memoriam
James Merrell Peet
October 7, 1939 – September 18, 2026 · Age 86
Obituary
James “Jim” Merrell Peet lived a life built on an unshakeable foundation of family, faith, and quiet generosity. Born on October 7, 1939 in San Angelo, Texas, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before devoting his life to caring for those around him. When he passed away on September 18, 2026, he was reunited in eternal peace with his parents, Merrell and Opal, his beloved wife, Jane, and his cherished son, Joseph.
Jim’s legacy lives on through his son Daniel (and wife Elizabeth) and his daughter Jean (and husband Christopher). Above all else, Jim’s world revolved around his deep devotion to his children, his fourteen grandchildren, and his eleven great-grandchildren. To Jim, blood or kin made no difference—every child was uniquely their own person, deeply loved, and held close to his heart. Whether watching them grow, attending family weddings, reading a book or listening to them sing about Jesus, the warmth in his eyes for his family was unmistakable.
Jim Was known for his welcoming nature, he loved connecting with lifelong friends, sharing stories, and filling his home with warmth, lighthearted banter, and unforgettable humor. In his final moments, surrounded by the laughter and presence of the family he held so dear, he slipped away peacefully, knowing the people he loved most were safe and together. As we honor a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, we take comfort in the rich legacy of love he left behind, carrying his generous heart and spirit forward in everything we do.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis, TX. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them on Thursday, September 24th, at 6:00 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church for a Celebration of Life honoring James. James will be laid to rest at Houston National Cemetery. His committal service will be Monday, September 28th, at 9:15 a.m. where he will be receiving his military honors.
Please line up in Lane 2 at 9:00 am
Jim’s legacy lives on through his son Daniel (and wife Elizabeth) and his daughter Jean (and husband Christopher). Above all else, Jim’s world revolved around his deep devotion to his children, his fourteen grandchildren, and his eleven great-grandchildren. To Jim, blood or kin made no difference—every child was uniquely their own person, deeply loved, and held close to his heart. Whether watching them grow, attending family weddings, reading a book or listening to them sing about Jesus, the warmth in his eyes for his family was unmistakable.
Jim Was known for his welcoming nature, he loved connecting with lifelong friends, sharing stories, and filling his home with warmth, lighthearted banter, and unforgettable humor. In his final moments, surrounded by the laughter and presence of the family he held so dear, he slipped away peacefully, knowing the people he loved most were safe and together. As we honor a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, we take comfort in the rich legacy of love he left behind, carrying his generous heart and spirit forward in everything we do.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis, TX. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them on Thursday, September 24th, at 6:00 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church for a Celebration of Life honoring James. James will be laid to rest at Houston National Cemetery. His committal service will be Monday, September 28th, at 9:15 a.m. where he will be receiving his military honors.
Please line up in Lane 2 at 9:00 am
Visitation & service details
Times, locations, and arrangements are maintained by the funeral home and may change. For complete, up-to-date information on visitation, services, and receptions, please open the official obituary page (opens in a new tab).
View full obituary at funeral home