James Charles Arber

It is with great sadness that the family of James C. Arber, 75, announces his passing on August 11, 2025, at Arlington Memorial Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

James was raised in Mansfield, Texas, where he graduated from Mansfield High School in 1968. In 1971, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy.

He was stationed at Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, California—later known as the iconic “Top Gun” base—where he proudly served as the VF-144 fighter squadron storekeeper, ensuring that the fighter jets had the parts they needed to stay airborne. His excellence and dedication earned him the title of “Sailor of the Month” during his time at Miramar.

Later, while deployed aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) stationed in the Gulf of Tonkin, AKAN James C. Arber was promoted to Petty Officer 3rd Class and honored once again as “Sailor of the Month.” He was also named “Aardvark of the Month” in May 1972 for his outstanding service to the VF-144 fighter squadron.

Following his return to Mansfield in 1972, he attended Texas Wesleyan College and worked alongside his father at Arber Electric Co., Inc. In 1988, he established his own company “Total Electric Inc.”, where he proudly served as President and Master Electrician until his passing.

He took immense pride in the work his company accomplished—whether building new homes, remodeling, or tackling commercial projects. His craftsmanship and commitment to customer satisfaction set a high standard.

James's legacy extends far beyond his profession. He was a guiding figure to many young people, known for his honesty, loyalty, integrity, and strong moral principles. To many, he was not only a mentor but a second father. One person shared,

“First and foremost, his kindness and heart—his willingness to always take care of others. He took chances on people and believed in them. Even when taken advantage of, he never let it change who he was.”

“Always working hard to provide for your family and many others. The fact no matter where I was in life, he never judged me, always supported me and my decision without fail and without question.”

Many praise him for giving them a second chance at life. Others have echoed similar sentiments, saying, 

“Thank you, boss, for believing in me.” 

He was deeply devoted to his wife of 54 years, Sharon Arber, who describes their marriage as “unique”—a bond built on mutual love, support, and the freedom to pursue individual dreams while remaining soulmates. One of James's greatest joys in recent years was his bond with his grandnephew, Bennett Lemons, whom he lovingly called “Little B.” Their time together—filled with cartoons, laughter, and shared affection—was a bright light during his declining health. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Ludell Arber, and by Judge and Cleo Lemons. 

James is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Sharon Arber; his devoted sister, Barbara Arber, and brother, David Arber. He also leaves behind extended family who brought him great pride and joy, including Denah Lemons, Jeff Huskins, Carl Hill, Whitnie Lemons, Brittnie Sparks and daughters, Lindsay Lemons, and Bennett Lemons, whose special bond with James brought light into his later years. 

He is fondly remembered by his godchildren, Joy and Shiela, as well as by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whose lives he touched with his unwavering love, wisdom, and support. 

To honor James’s memory, donations may be made to one of his favored causes: 

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Link 

Wounded Warrior Project Link

Project Hope for Troops 

Your local animal humane society 

There are no words to express how deeply he will be missed by all who have the privilege of knowing him. 

“As the sun rises over ‘ole El Paso, know that you will be with me always wherever I go.” – James Arber