James grew up in Livingston and attended Big Sandy Schools. As a young man, he spent his days in the woods hauling logs and heavy equipment. Later, he went into dirt work operating heavy equipment and "playing" in the dirt. He worked for Hughes Dirt Works in Corrigan, TX until his death. His trucker friends called him "Shiny" because he kept his truck so clean. Some people thought it was because of his bald head. He had a great sense of humor, and never ran out of "smart" comments. While James was an upstanding, law-abiding citizen, he frequently found himself in Facebook "jail" due to his authenticity and passion for speaking the truth.
On July 11, 2009, James married the love of his life, Tina Lynn Johnston Young. Together they shared many interests, primarily their grandchildren. Being a Papa was the highlight of James' life. He was extremely proud of all of his grandkids.
James is preceded in death by his parents; Uncles Merrill Martin, Milton Martin (Karen), Charles Robert Martin, and Wayne Martin.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Tina Young of Livingston, TX; brother, Douglas Wayne Young of Livingston, TX; daughter, Randi Young of Leggett, TX; sons, Garrett Richards (Melissa) of Cleveland, TX, and Brandon Richards of Las Cruces, NM; grandchildren, Harley, Rylee Jo, Emilio, CJ, Kendall, Eli, Austin, Jackson, Kyle, Brandon, and Violet; aunts, Jeannette Stephenson (Teddy), Mary Deville (Louis), and Betty McDonald (Jim). James is also survived by two brothers-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, countless friends, neighbors, and co-workers.
A memorial celebration to honor James' life will be held at a later date.
Condolences(5)
Tina Young
Livingston, TX Friday, December 1, 2023 I miss you... I miss your voice... I miss your face... I miss your laugh... I miss your touch...💔Debbie Hinklin Davis
Livingston, TX Monday, November 20, 2023 My dear friend James. I can only smile when I think of you. We had so much fun growing up, laughter was always there. Such a true friend growing up and after we were grown. Life and responsibilities came and we did not see each other often but when we did it was like we were teenagers again joking and laughing. My prayers are with the family. Until we meet again, I will always smile when I think of you.Bill Brackin
Austin, TX Monday, November 13, 2023 All my sympathy and best wishes to James' family. I will always smile when I think of the old days, when James and I would run together, and look forward to one fine day when we will again. He was a true friend, in the finest sense of the word.Karen Hon Matthews
Conroe, TX Monday, November 13, 2023 James Newton Young was a solid member of the group of men I knew who made up Polk County. He was one of those guys you'd remember after you met him because you knew he was one of the good ones.. I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with him when I was growing up, hauling hay and just goofing around. I saw the movie "Rocky" with him in a theater in Lufkin, Texas in 1976 and would give anything if I could remember what all he said on the trip home that had me laughing so hard. He always managed to crack me up! He also loved to elbow me about graduating from Leggett High School. I'd just smile and let him think he was smarter. :) We all know where he is now and I'm sure the angels are rolling on the floor with laughter, happy that James is finally up there with them. Happy trails, dear cousin. I'll see you on the other side! My love and hugs to Tina, Randi and all the folks who loved James so much. Thanks for making his life here a good one.David & Lisa White
Livingston, TX Friday, November 10, 2023 We are so sorry about the passing of James. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Didn’t know him for long but he was a great man. Always welcoming and had such a great personality. Tina, I am just a phone call away. Sending love!