James M Herring

James was born on October 26, 1940 in Newellton, LA to Reedy Vance Herring and Dixie Eskew Herring. He graduated from Newellton High School where he enjoyed playing and excelling in football. He graduated from Northwestern State University in 1964 where he majored in Agriculture. While at Northwestern he met Paula Vetter and they were married on March 17, 1965, on St. Patrick's Day. They were married for 53 years. James began his career in the field of agriculture working for Swift & Company and Arkla Fertilizer Company as a farm chemical salesman. He was quickly promoted and became an area supervisor for Monsanto Company for several years before helping to organize Tri-State Chemical Company where he was the Southern Regional Manager for several years. After many successful years in agricultural chemicals, James decided to embark on a career in farming. He created Cottonwood Farms in Red River Parish, LA, where he grew crops of cotton, corn, soybeans, timber, and also raised cattle. He served on the Board of the Armistead Cotton Gin for several years. James was a member of the First Baptist Church of Coushatta for many years where he and Paula were baptized together. James loved his family very much and was a wonderful father and grandfather. He took his family on many trips ranging from hunting, to snow skiing and fun days at the beach. He and Paula loved traveling, especially to Europe and visited many times, often with children or grandchildren along. James loved to deer hunt and one of his great pleasures were teaching his children and grandchildren the hunting skills he possessed, often in favorite spots in Texas. He loved football and was a huge fan of LSU, taking his family to many games in Tiger Stadium. James is survived by his wife Paula, son Jay and wife Michelle and his daughter Elizabeth Smith. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Sadi Smith, Jon Ashton Smith, Bailey and Avery Herring. He is also survived by his sister, Marie Keahey and his brother LaVance Herring and his wife Judy. Also, special nieces and nephews Cash, Drew, Margo, Heath and Kelly. Preceding James in death were his parents and his beloved son, James Paul Herring. James was known for his outgoing personality and great love of life. He loved to be with people and always had a very positive outlook. His daily morning coffee with friends was especially enjoyable to him and he looked forward to beginning his day with his friends for many years. He will be remembered for his ever-present smile and great personality characterized by his quick wit and humor. James will be deeply missed by his family and many friends. Visitation will begin at 1:30 PM on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, with funeral service to follow at 2:30 PM at First Baptist Church, 2000 Alonzo Street, Coushatta, LA with graveside to follow at Springville Cemetery in Coushatta. Memorials may be made to Springville Cemetery Monument Restoration Fund, or the memorial of your choice.