James Lynn Pritchard

James Lynn Pritchard, fondly known as Jim, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on the morning of December 16, 2024. Born on June 14, 1956, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, Jim's life was characterized by his unwavering faith, boundless generosity, and a genuine love for his family and community. Growing up in Farmington, New Mexico, Jim graduated from Farmington High School before pursuing higher education in chemistry at Murray State College and The University of Oklahoma. It was during these formative years that Jim married his high school sweetheart, Carol, on July 27, 1975. Their journey together led them to Midland, Texas, in 1979, where Jim embarked on a distinguished career as a chemist. He worked at Caprock Labs, Core Labs, and NL Erco Labs before founding his own petrochemical laboratory. For 31 years, Jim and Carol worked side by side as they built a successful enterprise, which they eventually sold. After transitioning from business, Jim devoted seven years to sharing his wealth of knowledge as an assistant chemistry professor at Midland College, inspiring the next generation of scientists. His passion for education was evident, and his enthusiasm for learning was contagious. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Ronald Pritchard of Longview, Texas and his mother, Mary Lynn Stanley of Gilmer, Texas. Jim was known as a loving father, father figure and role model to his sons, James Robert Pritchard of Midland, Texas and Johnny Lynn Flitton, his wife Emileh Flitton along with their sons Luke, Jonathan, Rylan and Duncan of Midland Texas, whose lives he enriched with his wisdom, kindness as well as his belief and faith in Jesus Christ. As the youngest of three siblings, Jim is survived by his brother, Kenneth Pritchard, and sister-in-law, Joan Pritchard of Regina, New Mexico, and his sister, Kathleen Vaughan, along with her husband, Dr. Danny Vaughan of La Junta, Colorado. Beloved and survived by his many nieces and nephews, Jim played an integral role in their lives. His influence extended to Ron Pritchard and wife, Amy Pritchard along with their children Ryan, Avery, and Rusty; Joyce Bachert and husband, Nathan along with their daughter Elizabeth; Lisa Calhoun and husband, Shane along with their son Ashton; Troy Vaughan; and Catherine Harnish and husband, Nick along with their daughter Veda. An avid car enthusiast, Jim was renown for his ability to repair or create anything with a motor, earning him the affectionate nickname of the person who could fix or build "anything." His eagerness to assist others was a hallmark of his character, matched only by an infectious smile that could light up any room. In addition to his professional and familial roles, Jim served faithfully as a Deacon at Cottonflat Baptist Church. Of all the titles and accomplishments he held throughout his life, from husband and father to teacher and businessman, Jim's greatest pride lay in being a dedicated believer and a born-again Christian. Jim will be remembered for his enduring faith, his heart as vast as the world, and the legacy of love and kindness he leaves behind. His family finds solace in the knowledge that he now resides in eternal peace. A Graveside service will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 10:00 AM at American Heritage Cemetery. A Celebration of life will be held on Thursday, December 19th, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Cottonflat Baptist Church.

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James Lynn Pritchard

June 14, 1956 - December 16, 2024