James T. “Jim” Burch, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on July 8th, 2026, joining the love of his life, Joan Burch, who preceded him in death on April 10, 2024.

Jim was born on February 4, 1935, to Malcom “Sport” Burch and Agnes McEntee Burch, and grew up in Rowlett, Texas. Throughout his life, Jim built a legacy defined by devotion, hard work, faith, humor, and an unwavering love for his family.

Jim and Joan shared 67 years of marriage — a love story built on commitment, partnership, and a devotion that never faded. Jim’s love for Joan was evident throughout their entire life together and continued even after her passing. After Joan’s death, Jim often spoke of joining her again, and the two had promised that whoever went first would wait for the other at Heaven’s gate.

Jim was incredibly proud of the life he built with Joan and the family they created together. He often shared stories of their early years, including how he bought Joan a new dress every week during their first year of marriage. Providing for his family and creating a beautiful life for those he loved was one of his greatest sources of pride.

A master electrician by trade, Jim had an extraordinary work ethic and spent many years building and running his successful business, Burch Electric Co. When asked about his hobbies, Jim’s answer was often simply, “working.” His dedication, determination, and pride in doing things the right way became qualities he passed down through the family.

Those who knew Jim knew he was a “pistol” — quick-witted, funny, and full of personality. He had a unique sense of humor and a way of keeping those around him smiling. His stories, his jokes, and his presence made him unforgettable.

Jim and Joan’s home was more than a house; it was a gathering place filled with love. Their door was always open to family and friends, and everyone who walked through it was welcomed. The warmth and peace found within their home became a reflection of the life they built together.

Jim was an animal lover deluxe, and his passion for horses became a treasured gift he passed on to his granddaughter. Through years of experience and a lifetime spent around horses, he shared with her not only a love for these animals but also a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that can only be acquired through a lifetime of experience.

Above all, Jim was a man of faith. He spoke to the Lord not as a distant figure, but as a friend. His relationship with God guided him throughout his life and remained a source of strength and comfort.

Jim’s greatest legacy is not only the business he built, the work he completed, or the things he accomplished, but the love he gave and the values he lived by. His devotion to Joan, his strong work ethic, his humor, his faith, and his love for his family will continue through the generations that follow him.

Jim is survived by his son, Joel Burch; daughter-in-law, Tonya Burch; grandson, Garret Burch; granddaughter, Erin Ferrell; and her husband, Brandon Ferrell. His family will continue to carry forward the values he lived by — his unwavering work ethic, his love of family, his faith, his humor, and the many lessons he shared throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Joan Burch, and his parents, Malcom and Agnes Burch.

Although our family misses Jim dearly, we find great comfort in knowing that he has been welcomed into Heaven and reunited with the love of his life. We can picture Joan waiting for him at Heaven’s gate, just as they promised they would do for one another.