J.T. Van Winkle, Sr.

James Thomas Van Winkle, Sr., 90, of Lake Charles, died Thursday August 10, 2017 in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his beloved family.

J.T. was a native of DeQuincy, Louisiana and a long-time resident of Lake Charles. Shortly after graduating from DeQuincy High School in 1943, he honorable served our country in the Navy during World War II and the Korean War. He married the love of his life, Mary Belle Romero and settled in Lake Charles. He worked for Gulf States Utilities (now Entergy) for 41 years. He loved and served his family and enjoyed traveling, hunting, gardening, amateur radio and spending time with his grandchildren. A faithful member of First Baptist Church of Lake Charles for over 50 years, he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. Following retirement, he helped build the mission church.

Preceding J.T. in death are his parents, Barney J. and Myrtle Patrick Van Winkle; brothers, George Van Winkle, Jesse H. Van Winkle and Barney E. Van Winkle; and a grandson, Jason W. Van Winkle. He leaves to honor is memory, his beloved wife, Mary Romero Van Winkle; sons, James T. Van Winkle, Jr. and Daniel L. Van Winkle; grandchildren, Eric Van Winkle, Elizabeth Van Winkle; great grandchildren, Matthew Van Winkle and Katie Van Winkle; and great great grandchildren, Liam Wright and Lillian Wright.

In accordance to J.T.’s wishes, cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home. Private inurnment services will take place at a later date at Prien Memorial Gardens.