Percy James Wyant

Percy James "Jim" Wyant, 79, of Longview joined his lord and savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, January 29, 2006. Jim was born on April 22, 1926 to Percy and Louise Wentz Wyant in St. Mary's, West Virginia. Jim grew up in Harlingen, Texas where he was active in many service organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle. After graduating high school in 1943, Jim served in the Merchant Marine on tankers in the North Atlantic during the last years of World War II. He graduated from the University of Texas in 1949 and worked in the shipping and construction industries in Port Isabel and Harlingen. Jim moved with his wife and children to Longview in 1964, to pursue a career as a real estate professional. The Wyant family joined of First Presbyterian Church where Jim served as a Sunday School Teacher, a Deacon, and Elder and Trustee. As a founding board member, Jim was instrumental in organizing the Longview chapter of Habitat for Humanity and was a former member of the Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs. After retirement, Jim and Anne volunteered driving for Meals on Wheels and as readers in the Adopt A School program at South Ward elementary. Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend who will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and gentle nature. He loved children, birds, flowers and enjoyed good food. Jim is survived by his wife Anne Noell Wyant, children Sally Rathbun, Mike Wyant, Julia Wyant and Carolyn Saathoff. Sons-in-law Casey Rathbun, John Simboli, Don Saathoff and daughter-in-law Jane Wyant. Grandchildren Noell Rathbun, Kathryn and Sara Beth Wyant, Vincent and Luke Simboli, and Jillian Saathoff. Sister Jane and brother - in-law Alan Todd and their children Charles, Bryan and Karen Todd. His niece Kathleen Tune and her brothers Jim and John Fitzgerald and sister Betty Ann Fitzgerald. Jim was preceded in death by his father Percy Wyant, mother Louise W. Lawrence and sister Betty and brother-in-law Milton Fitzgerald. The family would like to thank Dr. Rangu, the professional, caring staff at Alpine House Assisted Living and the Southern Care Hospice team, plus sitters Christina Oliver and Jo Davis. Memorial gifts may be sent to Longview Habitat for Humanity or First Presbyterian Church Building fund. Visitation will be tonight at Rader Funeral Home 5:30-7pm and memorial service at First Presbyterian Church on Wednesday February 1, 2006 at 10:00am with Rev. Jonathan Jehorek and Dr. W. D. O'Neal officiating.

Percy James Wyant

April 22, 1926 - January 29, 2006