James Travis Mettlen

James Travis Mettlen of Warren, Texas gained his wings on January 31, 2022 in Jasper, Texas after a courageous battle with cancer. James was born December 8, 2000 in Beaumont, Texas. In his last few months on earth his strength, authenticity, and boldness were vividly evident. James never ceased to amaze us throughout his life even all the way to the last moments. Those who love him describe James as a caring, selfless, forgiving, and protective man who loved his family. While facing the hardest battle of his life, James was primarily concerned about his mother, Carla. He loved all his siblings and made sure they knew this. Drinking coffee with his Nana, who spoiled him rotten, or listening to music were some of his favorite past times that brought him happiness. James was a witty, strong-willed man who knew what he wanted and when he wanted it even when it came down to how many oreos he wanted to eat!

He graduated from Warren High School in Warren, Texas in 2018 along with his sister, Harley McNeel. James dreamed of going into the medical field and had plans of being a paramedic. He completed the certification to be a phlebotomist right before he was diagnosed in October 2021.  He loved Jesus and gained comfort in Him but, wanted to make the declaration of a lifetime. November 27, 2021, James officially gave his life to Jesus and was baptized by Pastor William Seaman on his mother and dad’s front porch surrounded by family and friends! Again, with James, where there was a will…there was a way!

Left to carry on James’ memory are his parents Carla and Ben McNeel, sisters Jacey Mettlen, Harley McNeel (fiance’ Gabe Terrell), and Kylie McNeel, brother Jax Mettlen, grandparents Bonnie Prothro and Becky and David LeBlanc , Uncles Joseph Prothro, Jason Mettlen(Aunt Jodie Mettlen), Aunt Charity Boudreaux (husband Alan) and many extended family and friends. He is also survived by his cat, “Crackhead”.James is preceded in death by grandfathers Roy Prothro, John Mettlen, and James Parker.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 5, 2022, 10 - 12 at Agape Life Church, 240 East Durdin Drive, Silsbee, Texas.

Services are held under the direction of Riley Funeral Home and Crematorium.

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