James Steve Shelnut, 67, of Port Arthur, Texas passed away on Wednesday, December 26, 2018. James Steve Shelnut was born on June 10, 1951 in Winfield, Alabama to James Franklin and Maxine South Shelnut.

“Steve” served in the Merchant Marine and went on to work as an operator at TOTAL.  Steve was a kind, strong, hardworking man who always put family first; he would treat others as family members and even called them family. Steve was single parent after the death of his beloved wife, Juanita Annette Shelnut, and he was a great provider for his children. Steve had a passion for his grandchildren and for motorcycles; specifically, Harley Davidson’s. Steve often said, “I’m not a biker, but a bike rider.” He also enjoyed building hot rod cars, but his focus was always his family. Steve will be missed by his family and his extended family.

Steve was preceded in death by his loving wife, Juanita Annette Shelnut.

James is survived by a daughter, Melissa Shelnut; a son, James Shelnut, Jr.; grandchildren, Jak Poydence, Maggie Greig, Jaymi Star Shelnut, Arron Shelnut, and Alissa Shelnut; sisters Brenda Shelnut Seaux, and Terry Jimenez, and husband Robert (RJ); and long-time companion, Janice Goodman; as well as a host of friends and extended family.