James Jr. Atha, 68, died Wednesday, February 06, 2013 in Dalhart, TXA Memorial service was held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at the Spiritual Life Center (3560 FM 281, Dalhart, TX 79022)Leon Laney, Pastor of the Spiritual Life Center officiated. James Carl "Jr." Atha was born on May 25, 1944 in Montgomery, West Virginia to Sarah (Kinder) and James Henry Atha. He and his family lived in West Virginia until he moved to Texas in the early 1960s. He met and married the love of his life Ruthie Barnes in Texline, Texas on December 26, 1967 and they recently celebrated 45 years of marriage. During this time they were blessed with three children, two wonderful sons in laws, and a wonderful daughter in law. Jr was the Pa to six beautiful grandchildren that were the light of his life. Jr worked in the Clayton, Texline and Dalhart area for many years as a cowboy. He enjoyed roping, fishing, boating, antique cars, carpentry and many other activities. Jr. never met a stranger and will be missed by many friends. Jr and Ruth made their profession of faith together at the Texline First Baptist Church on March 17, 1974. Jr. was preceded in death by his mother, father, Brother Billy Atha and Sister Marlena Cochran. He leaves behind his wife Ruthie Atha of the home. Daughters, Jamie and husband Randy Batenhorst, Dalhart, TX, Cristi and husband Ray Martinez, Monte Vista, CO, and one son Jimmy and wife Lori Atha, Wichita, KS. Grandson Tanner Batenhorst, Canyon, TX, Granddaughter Karlie Batenhorst, Dalhart, TX, Grandsons Ethan and Logan Martinez, Monte Vista, CO, and James and Landen Atha, Wichita, KS. Brothers Raymond and wife Phyllis Atha, Turner, OR and Richard and wife Debby Atha, Abilene, TX. Sisters Juanita Denais, Charlotte Scott, Sarah Roush and Marsha and husband Dennis Matheny all of Point Pleasant, WV, Connie and husband Joe Harrell, Tuscola, TX and Laura and husband Curt Christiansen, Rockwall, TX and many nephews and nieces. The family suggest memorials be sent to ~ Twilight Trust Fund % First National Bank, 302 Denrock Ave., Dalhart, TX 79022. or Coon Memorial Home Health and Hospice, 1422 Denver Avenue, Dalhart, TX 79022.