James Page Champion (known as Jim or Jimmy to friends and family) passed away in San Antonio, Texas, on June 22, 2025, at the age of 82, due to complications from dementia.

Jim was born on March 8, 1943, in Terrell, Texas, to Mary Evelyn Page Champion and Melvin Earl Champion. Several of his ancestors were among the pioneer families of Kaufman County.

He attended Terrell schools through his junior year and graduated from St. Mark’s School of Texas in Dallas in 1961. He went on to earn his degree in English from Rice University, where he began a lifelong love for learning and exploration.

Jim enjoyed a long and successful career in information technology, which took him across the country and around the world. He built complex manufacturing and information systems for several Fortune 500 companies, eventually retiring as the IT Director for Sunbeam's First Alert Division in 2003.

In 2008, he launched a new venture—Texas Rainfall Catchment—with a partner, focusing on sustainable rainwater collection systems for homes, businesses, and military installations. The business reflected Jim’s deep commitment to the natural environment and his lifelong love of the outdoors. Camping, hiking, and fishing were among his greatest joys, and the work was a true labor of love aligned with his values.

Jim was kind, brilliant, inquisitive, and known for his incredible sense of humor. He was a proud Rice Owl, as is his sister Judy Champion of Tulsa, who survives him.

He is also survived by his wife of 38 years; his son Jay Champion of Niwot, Colorado (married to Dianna Champion), and grandchildren Jason Champion and Meredith Champion; his son Chris Champion of Basalt, Colorado (married to Dr. Mary Harris), and grandchildren Craig Champion and Allan Champion. Also surviving him is one nephew, Glen Ragan (married to Lyn Ragan) and their family, of Dripping Springs, Texas.

A memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to one of the causes Jim cared deeply about: The Big Bend Conservation Alliance: https://www.bigbendconservationalliance.org The Rice Investment Scholarship Fund: https://riceconnect.rice.edu/giving The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America: https://alzfdn.org