James Stanley Pawlik

James Stanley Pawlik, beloved husband, father, son, and brother passed away peacefully at home in Whitehouse, Texas, on September 8, 2026, at the age of 58 following a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born on October 7, 1967, in Beeville, Texas,

James lived his life with a rare combination of strength, integrity, compassion and he had an immeasurable amount of faith in the Lord. He was a steady anchor for his family and friends and leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to those around him.

The son of Leonard and Betty Pawlik, James was raised in Beeville alongside his sisters, Patti and Becky. As a young man, he raised livestock for stock shows, rode dirt bikes, and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. These early experiences helped shape the hardworking, adventurous, and family-centered man he would become.

In 1990, James married the love of his life, Rhonda Calvez. Together, they built a beautiful life defined by profound love, unwavering devotion, and a commitment to their family. They were blessed with four children: Justin, Jacob, Joshua, and Kyleigh Pawlik. The strong foundation of love and faith James and Rhonda built together continues to guide and sustain their family today.

James graduated from A.C. Jones High School in 1986. His passion for agriculture and mechanics led him to earn an Automotive Technology degree from Texas State Technical Institute (TSTI) in Waco in 1988. He went on to earn an Associate of Science in Agriculture from Bee County College and, in 1993, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a teaching certification from Texas A&I University.

James dedicated 16 years to teaching Agriculture Science, serving students at Weslaco High School, Victoria Stroman High School, Industrial High School, and Calallen High School. As a teacher, James inspired countless students, instilling in them a respect for hard work, a love for agriculture, and the confidence to pursue their own paths. He formed lifelong connections with many of his students.

In 2009, James transitioned to the oil industry, where he continued to demonstrate the exemplary work ethic, leadership, and integrity that defined him throughout his life. His career included significant roles with ExxonMobil, XTO Energy, and, finally, Faulconer Energy, where he concluded his professional journey in 2023.

Throughout the years, James remained deeply committed to agriculture, education, and his community. He was an active member of Bee County 4-H, Texas FFA, and the Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas. His involvement reflected his lifelong desire to encourage young people, share his knowledge, and help others grow. James's hobbies mirrored many of his greatest passions. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, hunting, camping, and boating, and he proudly passed those passions on to his children. Those moments were among the many ways James found joy in supporting his children along with celebrating their many accomplishments in FFA, THSBA, twirling and athletics. Family was always at the heart of James's life. Summers were filled with camping trips to numerous Texas state parks, spending time on the beaches of Texas, afternoons swimming in the pool, and countless hours fishing and boating on the lakes of East Texas. These simple but treasured moments created memories that his family will carry with them forever.

James was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Pawlik; his younger sister, Rebecca Pawlik; his father-in-law, Donald Calvez; and numerous grandparents and extended family members.

James is survived by his devoted wife, Rhonda Pawlik; his four children, Justin, Jacob (Chloe), Joshua, and Kyleigh Pawlik; his mother, Betty Pawlik; his sister, Patricia (Julian) Perales; niece Amanda; nephew Julian C. Perales; mother-in-law Charlene Calvez; brothers-in-law Russell (Misty) Calvez and Randal Calvez; niece Madison (Kyle) Rzasnicki; and numerous extended family members, friends, former students, and colleagues who all loved and admired him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, beginning at 5 p.m. with a Rosary following at 7 p.m., at St. George Catholic Church in George West.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 19,2026, at St. George Catholic Church with Fr. Romeo Salinas officiating. Interment will follow at St. George Catholic Cemetery.

In honor of James's life and his courageous battle with lung cancer, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the American Lung Association or the American Cancer Society.

James left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Through his love for his family, dedication to his students, commitment to his work, and passion for the outdoors, he made a difference in countless lives. His strength, wisdom, humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed, and his memory will be forever cherished by his family, friends, former students, colleagues, and community.