James Sonny Beach

Known as Sonny to his family, Jim to his friends, and Uncle James to his nephews.

James was born in Spur, TX in 1938. His family moved to Throckmorton, TX soon after. He graduated from Throckmorton High School in 1956 and from North Texas State in 1961 with a degree in education. He taught and coached in several small towns in Texas. 

In 1963 he married Judith Beach and moved to Florida, where he was a high school educator for over 30 years, gaining a master’s degree in library science along the way. Judy and James were blessed with two children, Heather (born in 1968) and Matthew (born in 1971). Judy and James would divorce in 1990.

After retirement, Sonny returned to Texas and worked as a librarian for the Texas Department of Corrections in South Texas, settling in San Antonio. 

He married Phyllis Chamberlain in 1998. After James retired from the TDC, he and Phyllis traveled extensively throughout the world. James loved photography and practiced it often as they traveled. 

James’ final career was as a volunteer Airport Ambassador at the San Antonio International Airport. Here he was able to greet travelers and give directions. He loved to visit and interact with people from across the world, amassing over 7000 volunteer hours serving airport guests.

He was a founding member of an Alzheimer’s support group for people with spouses that suffer from the disease at Alamo Heights Methodist Church. This group became an extended family for James and were a great support for him as he cared for Phyllis in her final years.  

James loved to play music. He played in several bands with his baritone and later, his ukulele.

James was proceeded in death by his wife, Phyllis, and his parents, Johnny and Floyd Beach. He is survived by his son, Matthew Beach, of San Antonio, his daughter, Heather Garcia of Macon, GA, his sister, Sue Beach of Lubbock, TX. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren,  2 nephews, and 1 niece.

James was a generous and caring man who will be remembered for fun loving spirit and contagious laugh. He spoke of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in his final days. 

A celebration of his life was held at Alamo Heights Methodist Church at 1:00 pm on July 28th, 2025. After the celebration, he was interred.