James Cleveland

James H. Cleveland, 80, of Amarillo, passed into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Celebration of life services will be 2:00 PM Saturday November 8, 2025, at CrossRoads Country Church, 14425 FM 1541, South Washington in Amarillo, with Pastor Bob Miller officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Cox-Rowley Funeral Home.

James was born on November 29, 1944, in Woodward, Oklahoma, to H.C. and Wava Cleveland. He graduated from High School in Borger, Texas, in1963. He earned Bachelors and Master’s degrees in Ag Education and Animal Science. He served in the United States Air Force as the Crew Chief for F-105 aircraft during the Vietnam conflict. James married his sweetheart, Leonida Thornton, in November of 1969 in Sherman, Texas; together they celebrated 56 years of marriage. He worked as an Ag teacher for Floydada ISD and later a real estate appraiser in Amarillo, Texas until his retirement. James lived life big and did not know a stranger. He loved classic car restoration and drag racing hot rods, rode Harley bikes and was a key participant in field cross ceremonies, honoring those who gave their life in service to our country. He was a ham radio operator, and a gun and knife enthusiast. He also enjoyed leather tooling and making western belts and, more recently, suspenders.

James was a dedicated, loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He enjoyed spending his spare time with his family and taking trips to his happy place, Ruidoso, New Mexico. He cherished time with his children, grandchildren and loved being “Uncle Speedy” to his nieces and nephews. He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed.

James was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Leonida Cleveland of the home; his daughter, Kristie Gola (Steve) of Georgetown; his step son, Randy Kennedy (Janet) of Brooklyn, New York; four sisters, Donna Prine of Fort Worth, Sue Mainord (Tim) of Rockwall, Cathy George (Phillip) of Amarillo and Carla Parker (Dudley) also of Amarillo; four grandchildren, Abbie Squyres, Tanner Squyres, Leo Kennedy and Iris Kennedy. Survivors also include his many nieces and nephews, as well as extended family and close friends.

Donations may be made to the Harrington Cancer and Health Foundation.