James Otto Lively

Life is an unknown journey, but for men of faith, the destination is assured. James Otto Lively began his journey in Comanche Texas on August 5, 1952. On September 11, 2025 arrived at his heavenly destination.

James or Jim to many was born to the late J.D. and Norma Lively in Comanche, Texas. His path led him to Olton Texas where he married his first love, the late Sherry Adams on February 10, 1972. They raised two boys, and moved from being a farm hand, to a water specialist for the city of Olton. Jim loved water, and serving others. Which lead him to serving as Public Works Director for the city of Olton, then City Administrator to the City of Stinnett, Texas; Lake manager at Buffalo Springs Lake; and finally retiring at the City of Lorenzo.

After Sherry passed, Jim struck gold a second time and married Mary Elizabeth Stultz of Andrews on June 21, 2008. Soon after they retired, and begin to work spend their time raising sheep, crafting and making gourd art. Jim won several awards at the Gourd Show for his pieces. Jim love to watch old war movies and talk about tractors, talk about public works experiences, or just tell old farm stories. Jim had an uncanny way of bringing those stories back to his love of Jesus, and how Jesus lived and died for us.

Jim was a man of faith. Jim was a deacon, Sunday school teacher, lead worship, preached a few sermons and lived his life an example of a servant of the Lord.

Jim is survived by his wife Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Lively of San Angelo. Son, Brocke and his wife Lela Lively of Plainview. Son Rhett and his wife Bailey Lively of Midland. A brother Paul, and his wife Karen of Lubbock. Jim had 7 grandchildren who he loved and supported deeply, Stephanie, Damon, Robert, Courtney, Alexis, Karamia and Zavion, and 3 great-grandchildren. Plus, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, and a few folks he called family even though he couldn’t quite remember how they were related.

Jim’s life was a full journey, but he knew where he was going, and September 11, 2025 he went home just in time for supper.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025 at Harper Funeral Home from 2:00 – 4:00pm. Celebration of life will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Harper Funeral Home at 1:00pm. Graveside service will be on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Olton Cemetery, in Olten, TX, at 1:00pm.