James “Tally” Taliaferro, 83, of Groves, Texas passed away Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family.

James was born January 16, 1935 in Port Arthur, Texas to John Taliaferro and Meda Sikes Taliaferro.

James was a lifelong area resident and member of the Church of Christ. He retired from Ameripol in 1997 as the assistant fire chief, and he was also an instructor at the Beaumont Fire Grounds. After retirement, he continued working as the owner of Tally’s Tackle Shop.

James was a member of Groves Masonic Lodge #1315, was Past President of Groves Chamber of Commerce in 2001, and member of Sabine-Neches Chief’s Association Mutual Aid Group. He was previously employed by Levingston Ambulance Service as a first responder for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, J. E. Taliaferro.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Betty Taliaferro of Groves; three daughters, Deborah Blackwell and husband Michael of Port Neches, Cindy Miller and husband Robert of Fannett, and Melly Beagle and husband Pat of Port Neches; one son, Jamey Taliaferro and wife Theresa of Groves; brother, Danny Taliaferro and wife Linda of Port Acres; grandchildren, Brandon Gouthier, Chrystal Ware, Misty Castille, Callie Sutterfield, Melissa Taliaferro, Jon Beagle, Amberly Taliaferro, Erin Beagle and Austin Taliaferro; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 26, 2018 at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday evening from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

A special thanks to Michael Granger, Courtney with Kindred Hospice, and Courtney with Elite Care.