James David Slavens

James David Slavens, 65, of Murphy, Texas, passed away March 14, 2023, after a long illness. He was born August 19, 1957, in Wichita Falls, Texas, the son of Frank D. and Joyce Alva (Kuder) Slavens. He was a product of Wichita Falls public schools and a 1976 graduate of Rider High School, where his nickname was “trouble”. David was active in band; he loved music his entire life, especially 50’s music. He was also an accomplished artist, drawing beautiful portraits in his spare time. In his mid 20’s, David joined the U.S. Army, where he proudly served his country for 22 years before retiring. His Army years took him to Germany, Korea, and Iraq. He loved to tell stories of riding a camel in Egypt, and of the escapades he and his fellow Army men and women were always getting into. He loved his country, and served it proudly. His final 2 years in the Army he did 2 tours of duty in Iraq, where he was injured. Although in constant pain, he never complained. He was a real warrior, and a hero. He always used to tell me that the real heroes were the ones that never came home. He was still a hero to me, and to all of those who knew and loved him. Upon returning home, he retired and made Colorado Springs, Colorado his home. David was a selfless man, and would give the shirt off of his back to someone in need. In 2018, his dad needed a caregiver, and David dropped everything and went back to Wichita Falls. He sold our home in Colorado, and put everything we owned in storage, and moved in with his dad. Frank’s last wish was to die at home, and David made sure that he got his wish. He was holding his dad’s hand when he passed into Heaven. After Frank’s passing, one more move was in order to Murphy, Texas, to be closer to the children and soon-to-be grandchild. David loved to fish, to barbeque in the backyard, and to “piddle”. He was happiest when he was tinkering around in his garage, or getting ready for a fishing trip. His only requirement when he left Wichita Falls was to be no more than 20 minutes away from a body of water. He always had a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin on his face, and was ready to help anyone at any time with anything. He was so good at working with his hands, that people would bring him things to work on. It was always said that if David couldn’t fix it, it couldn’t be fixed. He loved Jesus and his family. While we grieve and mourn his passing, the knowledge that he is now safely in the arms of Jesus and no longer hurting, give comfort. David is preceded in death by his parents, his biological mom, Constance Lessard, sister Katina Lessard, and sister Patricia Maudin. He is survived by his loving wife, Sherrie Slavens, and his children, Nicholas Slavens, Kelley Dennett, (husband Mathew), Joshua Bristo, (wife Larissa), Rachel Bristo, and grandson, Revan Dennett. He is also survived by his brothers, Mike Lessard, Todd Lessard, Brock Lessard, and Patrick Lessard, a sister, Paula Lessard, and many nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. David wanted no fuss when he passed. A memorial is planned for sometime this summer.

James David Slavens

August 19, 1957 - March 14, 2023