James Paul Kerbow

James Paul "Jim" Kerbow, 87, passed away on July 16, 2026, in the town he proudly called home for most of his life, San Angelo, Texas.

Born on January 14, 1939, in Wichita Falls, Texas, to Paul Boyd Kerbow and Mary Alice (Thornton) Kerbow, Jim was raised in San Angelo, where he attended Santa Rita Elementary, Lee Junior High, and graduated from San Angelo High School in 1957. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Texas Tech University in 1967.

During his years at Texas Tech, Jim proudly pledged the Epsilon Nu Chapter of Sigma Chi, beginning a lifelong commitment to the fraternity and its ideals. As both an undergraduate and alumnus, he played an instrumental role in chapter meetings, events, and decisions that strengthened the brotherhood and helped shape its future. Whether a brother needed help or an event required another set of hands, Jim was rarely one to say "no." He was also deeply involved in the Saddle Tramps spirit organization, enthusiastically supporting Texas Tech through pep rallies and athletic events. His unwavering loyalty to Sigma Chi and Texas Tech reflected the generosity, commitment, and lifelong friendships that defined so much of his life.

Jim's career took him in several directions over the years. He worked as the warehouse manager for Crown Central Petroleum in Pasadena, Texas, before returning to San Angelo, where he co-owned and operated Wes-Tex Moving and Storage for close to 20 years. He later worked as a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker, a role that suited him well. He genuinely enjoyed meeting people, engaging in conversation, and building lasting relationships throughout the community.

Service to others was a constant throughout Jim's life. He volunteered as both an EMT and firefighter with the Klein Volunteer Fire Department and the Christoval Volunteer Fire Department, always willing to answer the call when his community needed him. He also found great enjoyment as an active member of Fort Concho's Infantry Living History Unit, where he shared his passion for history with countless visitors and fellow reenactors.

Jim was known for his sharp wit, sense of humor, and unmistakable stubborn streak. He loved good conversation and was happiest when surrounded by friends and family. Whether swapping stories, sharing sarcasm, or standing firmly by his convictions, Jim left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Kelly Hudson (Andy) of Charleston, South Carolina, and Kristin McKerbow (Jess) of San Antonio, Texas, and their mother, Susan Kerbow of San Angelo, Jim’s former spouse; his grandchildren, Levi McKerbow, Mia McKerbow, Lila McKerbow, Margaret Hudson, and Carrie-Belle Hudson; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Mary Alice Kerbow.

The family invites those who knew Jim to remember him for the friendships he cherished, the service he gave to his community, and the humor and steadfast spirit that defined his life.

Funeral Services will be held at Harper Funeral Home, 2606 Southland Blvd., in San Angelo, on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM, with interment following at Fairmount Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

A memorial contribution may be made to: Concho Hearts Hospice or the San Angelo Lions Clubs

The family extends much gratitude to the staff of Sagecrest at Baptist Retirement and Concho Hearts Hospice.