James Merrell Means, Jr.

James Merrell Means, Jr., age 96, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026.

Born on June 16, 1930, in Zebulon, Georgia, Jim was the son of the late James Merrell Means, Sr. and Ganelle Corley Means. He graduated from North Georgia College in 1951 and, after proudly serving in the United States Army, enjoyed a distinguished career of more than 25 years with the U.S. Public Health Service.

Jim never met a stranger. A true people person with a generous heart, he devoted much of his retirement to what he fondly called his “full-time” volunteer work, sharing his wisdom and compassionate spirit with Newton General Hospital, the Georgia Child Fatality Review Board, and his beloved church. Even with his many commitments, Jim discovered an impressive talent for painting. He became an accomplished artist, and each year friends and family eagerly anticipated the original artwork he created for his and Dot’s Christmas cards.

Jim was devoted to his wife of 74 years, Dorothea “Dot” Royster Means. Together they created a life centered on faith, family, and service, raising three children and delighting in four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Ellen and Gerald Spinks; his son-in-law, Tom Garrison; and his grandson, Tommy Garrison.

He is survived by his loving wife, Dot; his daughter, Elaine Garrison; his sons, Jim Means (Mary) and Bill Means (Susie); his grandchildren, Bree Salazar, Lauren Fyock (Matt), and John Means (Mia); and his great-grandchildren, Adam Salazar, Wylder Means, and Livia Means.

A Celebration of Life and graveside service will be held at a future date at Zebulon Methodist Church in Zebulon, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that acts of kindness be performed in Jim’s memory—a fitting tribute to a man whose life was defined by generosity, service, and love for others.