James Frederic Applegath, 71, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 24, 2024, in Katy, Texas after a long battle with frontotemporal lobe dementia. James was born March 4, 1952, in El Dorado, Arkansas and his family moved to Texas City in 1962 when his father was transferred there with Monsanto. During his high school years James participated in football and track and was a member of the TCHS class of 1970. Although he was a Texas resident, his dream was to play football for the Arkansas Razorbacks, and he spent the better part of 3 years doing so.

James had a long and successful career in the construction industry. Until his retirement in 2011 he was part owner of Epoxy Design Systems, a company specializing in structural concrete repair. In addition to his work, James enjoyed people, learning other languages (even if it was just a few words), travel, and all things Katy High School football.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Fred, and Wanda Kiel Applegath and his brother John Kiel Applegath. He is survived by his daughters Daphne Allen, Ella Milton and Laura Osborne and their husbands; his precious grandchildren; nieces and nephews and by the mother of his children, Amanda Applegath. He is also survived by his sister Ellen Applegath Honeycutt and brother Tom Applegath.

Those wishing to make memorial gifts may consider a donation to Manna House, a nonprofit men’s addiction recovery home and program located in Brookshire, TX. James volunteered at Manna House, and it was a place dear to his heart. Their address is 1234 FM 359 North, Brookshire, TX 77423.

A celebration of James’ life is planned for mid-April in Katy, Texas.