Obituary of James Buster Diamond
James Buster Diamond, 80, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, October 8, 2017. He was born on December 23, 1936 in Como, Texas to John Buster and Ida Mae (Harris) Diamond. He spent most of his childhood in Memphis, Texas before moving back to Como to complete high school. At the age of 17, while still in high school, James accepted the Lord's calling for his life. After graduating from Como High School in 1955, he attended Dallas Christian College where he began his 63 years in the ministry.
It was during this time that James met the love of his life, Melba Mapes of Yantis. They married on September 2, 1956 at Como Christian Church in Como, Texas. They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary this past September. Throughout his time in the ministry, James pastored several churches including Forest Grove Christian Church in McKinney, Forest Grove Christian Church in Rockdale, Como Christian Church in Como, First Christian Church in Royse City, and most recently retiring from Cedar Crest Christian Church in Sulphur Springs. Upon retirement, he and Melba came into the incredibly loving and open arms of League Street Church of Christ in Sulphur Springs, and made this their church home. For the first time in 63 years, James was simply a member of the church family. His love for Christ's church was so evident in his undying devotion. In fact, on the day before he left this earth, he told Melba "I can hardly wait for church on Sunday".
Those who knew James know that he never met a stranger. He was full of life, and loved to joke and tell stories. He had an incredible love for music and singing. For many years, he and his youngest daughter, Angie, shared in music ministry together. He also had an incredible love for dogs, especially his beloved Buffy and Scooter.
Throughout his ministry, James was also employed with City National Bank in Sulphur Springs for 37 years, where he retired as Senior Vice President.
James is survived by his loving wife Melba and his 4-legged little boy, Scooter. He is also survived by daughters Susan Diamond of Sulphur Springs, Laura Taylor and husband Danny of Poteau, Oklahoma, and Angie Wenning and husband Kent of Sulphur Springs. Grandchildren are Chelsea Suttle of Dallas, Shelby Gammill and husband Johnathon of Sulphur Springs, Leslie Hemphill and husband Casey of Poteau, Oklahoma, Kellie Hale and husband Jordan of Barling, Arkansas, Sallie Taylor of Poteau, Oklahoma, Austin English and Norris English, both of Sulphur Springs. And great grandsons Jackson, Jenner, and Jude of Sulphur Springs. He is also survived by his sister Lee Diamond of Houston, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
James was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Truman Diamond, and nephew, Mark Milheim.
Memorials may be made to the League Street Church of Christ Youth Funds, 1100 League St. S, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home. www.westoaksfuneralhome.com