James Travis Huebner, 73, passed away January 26, 2026, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease and other health issues.

James was born October 11, 1952, to Travis Burton and Barbara Willadeen Smith Huebner in Beeville, the second of 12 children. James spent his childhood in Beeville, Corpus Christi and Robstown. After the family returned to Beeville, James attended St. Mary’s Catholic School, Beeville public schools, and graduated from A.C. Jones High School.

He married Miroslava “Elsa” Pardo on November 1, 1987.

James was a familiar face around Beeville. While still in school, he worked for Raymond Eissler at Blueberry Hill Auction Service. He was a longtime employee at White Auto, had his own mowing service Huebner Lawn Service, worked at a pest control company and a roofing company. He and Elsa also managed independent motels in Rockport, Victoria and other towns.

For many years he was a well-known and beloved Santa Claus in Beeville and the surrounding area. Santa and Mrs. Claus visited many businesses, schools, homes, senior citizen centers and nursing homes, as well as appearing in several Christmas parades. As such, he touched the lives of many families and children. He was always thrilled to be recognized by “those kids” in later years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Travis and Willadeen Huebner, brothers Donald Huebner and Richard Huebner, and great-granddaughter Olivia Garza.

James is survived by his wife, Elsa Huebner of Beeville; daughter Heather Thibodeaux and husband Kenny; stepdaughter Delma Moya and husband Marty; stepson Wayne Matherly; grandchildren: Daniel Cardenas and Brittany Nicole, David and Brandy Cardenas, Victor and Jennifer Cardenas, Jasmine Garza, Richelle and Matthew Plunk, Zakkary Matherly, Gabriella Moya, Laura and Tyler Blaylock, and Kaylee, Kelsey and Madison Thibodeaux; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Also surviving him are six brothers and three sisters, Steve (Carole) Huebner of Centerville, Eddie (Yolanda) Huebner of Seguin, Johnny Huebner of Houston, Danny Huebner of Seffner, FL, Mary Huebner of Beeville, Barbara Chandler of Cypress, David Huebner of Jasper, GA, Lisa Huebner (Billy Wallace Jr.) of Corpus Christi and Bobby (Brenda) Huebner of Hillsboro, IN; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

James was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and recently Beeville Baptist Church.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Beeville Baptist Church.