Jimmy "Jim" Ray Barton

Jimmy (Jim) Ray Barton, Sr. was born on November 28, 1944, to Alice Garner Barton and Alvin Leslie Barton in Kilgore, Texas. He was raised in Midland, Texas, alongside his beloved older sister, Danetta (Dani Hill).

A proud graduate of Robert E. Lee High School, Midland, TX. After graduation, Jim answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army’s renowned Hell on Wheels Tank Corp Division. He served with honor and pride.

Returning to Midland, in 1965, Jim married Sue Easley of Midland, and, alongside his wife, managed the Barn Door Restaurant, embracing a life of hard work and hospitality. He welcomed his firstborn son, Jimmy, on June 18, 1967, in Midland, beginning a chapter of fatherhood he cherished deeply.

In 1974, Jim and his father founded two oil field companies—A.L. Barton Transports and Polk-a-Dot Water Hauling—which he operated until 1999. He was also the founder and owner of Shutter Bug Photography of Big Lake, Texas, where he became well-known for capturing school events, graduations, weddings, Quinceañeras, and sports moments—sometimes even risking life and limb, as when he was famously run over by a football player while shooting action shots. His photographic talent earned him numerous state awards, proudly displayed in his studio. On July 18, 1975, Jim and his wife welcomed their son, Jamie Barton, who became well known in the community and later passed away on December 1, 2010.

In November 1998, following a divorce, he met Madeline Carraway Summerlin at a symphony in San Angelo, Texas. They were married on July 2, 1999—a date carefully chosen by Madeline. Jim wanted to marry Madeline on July 1st, which is Madeline’s birthday; however, Madeline chose July 2nd, to ensure she would receive separate gifts (birthday and wedding), which was something both often shared in laughter. Together, they built a life filled with work, travel, and partnership.

A creative soul, Jim perfected a jalapeño and pimento cheese spread from a cherished family recipe, known as Pappy’s Jalapeno Cheese Spread. Although imitators tried, none matched the original—its secret is still held with Jim.

Jim’s work ethic and warmth were evident throughout his career, including ATS Transport, where he established a life-long friendship with Roger Street, a fellow driver, where they transported materials from San Angelo to Presidio and Winters.

For a time, he was employed at City Lumber and, most recently, at McCoy’s, where he forged lasting friendships with management, staff, and customers. He held special affection for colleagues like Ron Terrell,Mgr., Will Alberthal, Sierra and all the office help and Felicia (“Buckwheat”), who became work buddys and true friends.

One of Jim’s proudest moments came in 2021, when he participated in the Permian Basin Honor Flight, a meaningful journey made possible by Tami Cooper, of Christoval, a veteran and one of the organizers of this non-profit veteran programs in Christoval, Texas.

Jim’s life was grounded in faith, shaped by his Pentecostal Christian upbringing under the guidance of his pastor parents. He was an active member of the United Pentecostal Church, attending the Door of Hope on Preusser Street with Pastors Jonathan and wife Ashley Marshall.

Jimmy’s many memberships include: Cushman Motorcycle Association, National Rifle Association, Bow Hunters of America, Professional Photographers of America, Board and Elder of Door of Hope United Pentecostal Church, and Board of Finance Committee of San Angelo Federal Credit Union.

Jim’s legacy endures in the hearts of family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know his kindness, creativity, and generous spirit. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Special thanks go to St. Gabriel’s Hospice, Donna Gallegos, Tammy Celaya, and all the staff. Also, the EMTs of both Christoval and the City of San Angelo, Texas. Special thanks to Shannon Medical Center 4th and 5th floor nurses, especially Emry, RN and Manuela RN and all those who provided comfort. Appreciation is also extended to the wound care staff, Dr. Mills, and Denise, as well as Jessica of Shannon Home Health. They all in their own specialties helped Jim through his fight with Congestive Heart Failure.

Madeline would like to thank her friend and LVN (ret.), Blossom Kotrla, for the above and beyond care and nursing information she provided when Madeline had to give IV antibiotics. She was there night and day whenever she was needed.

Preceded in death were parents, Alvin and Alice Barton, sister, Danetta Hill, brother-in-law, Arnold Lee Hill and son James “Jamie” Barton.

Survivors include Jim’s wife, Madeline Barton, stepson Charles (Chip) Summerlin, son Jimmy Barton and wife Patricia, grandson Baylee Barton, nephew Tommy McNeill and wife Christy, great niece, Amanda Brinkley and husband, Steven Brinkley and their children Texas, Ella and Shooter. Many more relatives scattered throughout east Texas.,

Pallbearers will be Jimmy Barton, Baylee Barton, Koby Joe Harding, Jon Peterson, Roger Street and Jonathan Connel.

A Visitation will be held at Harper Funeral Home, Friday, May 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at Harper Funeral Home, Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM with burial to follow at Glenrest Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite charity in remembrance of Jimmy Ray Barton.