Rev. James Lyndon Haynes, a former Brownwood resident who spent decades in Methodist ministry across Texas, died Oct. 20, 2026, in Marble Falls. He was 85.
Haynes was born June 15, 1941, in Santa Anna to Jesse Roy “J.R.” and Helen Virginia (Dean) Haynes. He later lived in Brownwood, as well as Jal, New Mexico, and Kermit, Texas.
His family said Haynes entered what they described as Heaven from Marble Falls. He was married to his high school sweetheart, LaVelle McClintock, in Santa Anna on Sept. 30, 1959. They had one daughter, Becky.
A career from trucking to ministry
Haynes worked for many years in trucking before beginning a second career in the Methodist ministry. His education included Cisco Junior College, Tarleton State University and Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University.
During his ministry, Haynes pastored churches in Blanket, Mullin, Gorman, Dublin, Rising Star, May, Gordon, Santo, Hannibal, Florence, Jarrell, Waco Lakeview and Chatfield. He retired from pastoral work in 2006 and later worked as a cashier.
The obituary described Haynes as a devoted son, husband and father. It also highlighted his role as “Poppy” to two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He enjoyed taking his grandchildren Shelby and Brady on adventures, and was known for enjoying jokes and pranks.
Family, interests and remembrance
Haynes’ favorite pastimes included reading, fishing, traveling, cheering for the Aggies, visiting the beach and spending time with friends and family. He especially enjoyed playing cards and dominoes.
He was preceded in death by his wife, LaVelle; his parents, J.R. and Helen; and his brother, Jesse Haynes.
He is survived by his daughter, Becky, and son-in-law Lendale Widner; granddaughter Shelby Wright and her husband, Jeff; grandson Brady Widner and his wife, Jennifer; five great-grandchildren—Carson, Nolan, Kinsley, Grayson and Judge; brothers Roy and Weldon Haynes; sisters Ginger Graham, Kay Hays and Mary Bordeaux; sister-in-law Joyce Leffingwell; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family’s cat, Possum, was also noted among those he leaves behind.
The family expressed appreciation to the staff members at Arbor House Assisted Living, Granite Mesa Health Center and Comforts of Home Hospice for their care.
Services planned in Marble Falls and Santa Anna
Haynes’ Celebration of Life is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, 2027, at First Methodist Church of Marble Falls. Rev. Ellen Ely will officiate, and visitation will follow immediately afterward.
Interment of ashes is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at Santa Anna Cemetery. Those attending are encouraged to wear shades of maroon in his memory. The obituary said Haynes requested that memorials be made to First Methodist Church of Marble Falls.
Arrangements are being handled by Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home.