Jimmy Joe Rettig

Jimmy Joe Rettig, 79, peacefully passed away at home July 24, in Portland, Texas. Born September 24, 1937 in Cameron, Texas, to Emma Joe Massengale Rettig and Albert William Rettig, Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents and one brother Albert.

Jimmy loved teaching, coaching, and also art. He taught in Bruni, Cameron, Freer, and G-P high schools. He retired after 31 years, having been teacher, coach, vice-principal, or principal at Gregory Portland High School for most of his career. During retirement, he enjoyed traveling with his beloved Linda, especially to visit their grandchildren and watch them in their activities.

He served as a deacon at the First Baptist Church in Portland, a member for 49 years, and taught Sunday school there and also at the Carriage Inn. Service was a big part of who he was, with open home and heart. He also enjoyed volunteering, whether at the hospital, driving others to activities, ministering to troubled youth, or serving snow cones or popcorn to children at church activities.

Jimmy loved fishing, which he did anytime and anywhere there was enough water for him to test his pole and line. He was a fisherman of men as well; and could be found enjoying varied games around a table in fellowship with family and friends, or attending a baseball or football game or music concert together.

Surviving Jimmy are his loving wife Linda of 53 years; daughters Jo Lynn of Austin, Jennifer Schroeder (Mark) of Andover, Kansas, Sarah of Corpus Christi; grandchildren Hannah Barton (Jonathan) of Fort Dodge, Iowa, Holly soon to be Longhofer (Zachary), Ruth, Samuel; and a host of family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the First Baptist Church, Benevolence Fund, 1305 Wildcat Dr., Portland, TX 78374.