James Marshall Magill, age 82, of Canton passed away Saturday, July 6, 2013. He was born in Fort Worth on August 4, 1930, to James Marshall and Ruth (Simpson) Magill.
He grew up in Denton, graduated from Denton High School, and received his Bachelors and Master's Degrees from the University of North Texas (N.T.S.U.). James married Helen (Patty) Brantley in Meridian on December 28, 1952.
James began his career coaching in Denison, then followed by Orange, and finishing at Denton High School. During these years, he had a positive influence on many young athletes who still refer to him as "Coach" to this day. He later had the opportunity to open his own business, James Magill Sport Center, supplying equipment to countless families in Denton and the surrounding area. After selling his business, he was successful in raising and racing Thoroughbred horses.
In 2000, James and Patty relocated to Canton to be near their daughter and grandson, where he enjoyed attending Friday night football in East Texas. James was a life-long Presbyterian and current member of the First Presbyterian Church of Canton where he served as an Elder.
James is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patty; daughter Marsha Magill Robison and husband, Rob; grandson Connor Magill Robison; and many adoring family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Betty Magill Hartline and niece Sandra Hartline.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Mulkey-Mason Jack Schmitz and son Funeral Home, 705 N. Locust Street, Denton, TX 76201. The Rev. John Zeigler will officiate the service. Burial will follow at I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Denton, Texas. A visitation will take place beginning at 1:00pm before the service.
For those desiring, memorial in James' name may be made to First Presbyterian Church, PO Box 545, Canton, Texas 75103 or a charity of your choice.
Pallbearers will be Ross Robinson, Brent Mudie, Brock Mudie, Richard Tonihka, Terry Thomason and Adam Piper.