Corsicana - Dr. James G. Price, a dedicated dentist, community leader and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at his home on November 15, 2024, in Corsicana, Texas, just days before his 90th birthday. James was born in Tyler, Texas on November 23, 1934 to Eldridge Lee and Winnie L. Carter Price. At the age of four, the family moved to Houston, Texas where he later attended Jefferson Davis High School. He excelled in football, basketball and baseball while also serving as President of the National Honor Society and President of his senior class, graduating in 1953.

James attended Baylor University where he completed his pre-medical studies, followed by dental school at the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. Following his time at Baylor, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Gates Price, a relationship that began during their time together in middle school. Upon completion of his dental studies, he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1959, and soon after joined the United States Air Force as a dental officer, obtaining the rank of Captain.

In 1961, he and Carolyn moved to Corsicana to open his private dental practice, where he served the community for 44 years. His career in dentistry was marked by excellence, dedication and selflessness, often making himself available late into the evenings and weekends. He also had a strong desire to mentor and assist younger dentists, helping them excel in their practice.

Throughout his life, James continued to be a devoted servant to both his family and community. He was a founding member of City National Bank of Corsicana, which was formed in 1982. He has served continuously as a member of the Board of Directors, most recently as Vice Chairman. His leadership extended to many organizations, which included; 28 years as chairman of the Navarro County Appraisal District, 20 years on the Navarro College Board of Trustees, 24 years on the board of the Corsicana Independent School District, 18 of which were spent as President. He also served for 24 years on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, 40 years of service to the local YMCA Board, including time spent as President. Additionally, he spent time serving on various boards and committees for Baylor University.

James was a proud member of the Rotary Club of Corsicana Texas since 1961, where he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow and served multiple terms as President. He was an active member of numerous professional dental organizations, serving as both the President of the Texas Dental Association's Sixth District and the Texas Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, he was a dedicated and faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Corsicana, where he served as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Director, and in numerous leadership roles within the Deacon Committee. He played a pivotal role in the growth and development of FBC Corsicana, the YMCA and Navarro College, spearheading numerous building projects over the years.

James was a loving husband to his wife, Carolyn for 68 years. Together, they raised three children: Leslie, Kyle, and Lee, who brought him immense joy. He was known for his warmth, wit, deep faith, integrity, and his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his family, friends, and patients.

Beyond his professional and community work, James was a passionate sports enthusiast, having been active in high school athletics. Those that knew him were well aware of his disciplined daily workout schedule, his competitive love for racquetball well into his later years, and of course his love for all things Baylor sports.

James leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and leadership that will be cherished by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his children, Leslie Price Peters (Phil), Kyle Price (Laura), and Lee Price (Laura); his grandchildren, Kyle Peters, Price Peters (Paige), Elaine Peters, Erin Price Baquero (Capt. Jose Baquero), Emily Price, Alexandria Price, and Anna Price, his great-grandson, Ian Baquero, and his sister Carol Ann Ford. He was predeceased by his parents, E. L. and Winnie Price, a sister, Dr. Jean Price Newton and brother, Charles Price, J.D.

A service to celebrate James' life will be held at First Baptist Church in Corsicana on Saturday, November 23 at 2 pm, preceded by private burial service that morning. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund, or the Humane Society of Navarro County.