Rev. James Schoenrock

Rev. James Vestal Schoenrock of Little Rock, Arkansas, went home to be with the Lord on December 21, 2025, just shy of three weeks after celebrating his 88th birthday. Called to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ at the young age of 11, James devoted his entire life to Christian ministry. He was a loving son who faithfully cared for his aging parents, a brother who treasured time and memories with family, a devoted husband who tenderly cared for his wife through her long battle with Alzheimer's disease, a father who laid a strong foundation of faith for his children, and a grandfather and great-grandfather who delighted in time with them. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

James was born on December 2, 1937, in Levelland, Texas, to Reverend Helmer and Dorothy Schoenrock. He graduated from Odessa High School in 1956 and attended Odessa Junior College for one year before transferring to Jacksonville College. It was there that he met the love of his life, Wilma Seago. They married in 1958 at the conclusion of their school year, beginning a marriage that would span 65 years. James earned an Associate of Arts degree from Jacksonville College and a Bachelor of Science degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. He was also a three-time graduate of BMA Seminary, earning two Bachelor of Divinity degrees-one with an emphasis in languages-and a Master of Divinity.

Over the course of 60 years, James pastored 11 churches across Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas, most recently serving nearly 20 years at Sheppard Drive Baptist Church in Euless, Texas. His heart for missions led him to serve first as Assistant Director and then as Director of Missions for the Baptist Missionary Association of America. In this role, he traveled extensively throughout the United States and around the world, encouraging churches and missionaries for nine years. He was also the first full-time Association of Baptist Students (ABS) Director at Southern State University in Magnolia, Arkansas (now Southern Arkansas University), and taught extension courses for BMA Seminary.

James faithfully volunteered his time and leadership in numerous roles, including Vice President and President of the BMA of Texas, member of the Administrative Committee of the BMA of Texas, Chairman of the Advisory Committee of the Missions Department of the BMA of America, and Trustee of Jacksonville College. In recognition of his lifelong service, he received the Kellar Award from BMA Seminary in 2008 and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Jacksonville College in 2021.

James loved sports and played football in high school until an injury ended his playing days. Though sidelined from the field, his enthusiasm for sports never waned. He delighted in watching and listening to games-often doing both at the same time. A proud Texan, his favorite teams were the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys. One of his most cherished memories was watching the Cowboys play on Thanksgiving Day in 2014 from a suite with his grandchildren. He also loved music, especially Southern gospel, and had a special fondness for The Gaither Vocal Band. Singing in church brought him great joy, and he often sang duets alongside Wilma. An avid reader of books and newspapers, James amassed a substantial personal library and even joined a book club in his final days. Having worked at J.C. Penney in his younger years, he always took pride in his appearance and enjoyed wearing a suit and tie, as well as shopping for clothing for both himself and Wilma.

Above all, James loved people. He genuinely enjoyed learning about everyone he met, asking thoughtful questions, listening attentively, and remembering their stories. He believed that knowing people better equipped him to minister to them more effectively. He was a source of encouragement to church members, fellow pastors, and missionaries around the world. His deep relationships made him a sought-after minister for funerals, where he offered comfort and hope. He spent countless hours on the phone catching up with friends and was active on Facebook, faithfully wishing others a happy birthday and engaging with their posts and photos.

After surviving a diabetic coma in April, James retired from preaching and moved to Little Rock to be closer to his daughter. There, he enjoyed renewed time with family, reconnected with many Arkansas friends, and became an active member of Chenal Valley Baptist Church-often bringing visitors with him. At Chenal Pines Independent Living Center, James quickly built new friendships, helped lead a Bible study, and played a role in organizing social activities. Even in his final days, he continued to invest in others, charming the nursing staff at Baptist Health Medical Center with his warmth and kindness.

James is survived by family members who were deeply dear to his heart: his sister, Helen Kulas; his brother, John Schoenrock; his daughter, Tammie S. Davis, and her husband, Mark; his son, David Schoenrock; grandchildren Jenny Ray, Justin Schoenrock, Derek Schoenrock, Mason Davis, and Abigail Davis; and great-grandchildren Abygail Ray, Lynzi Ray, and Mary Elizabeth Schoenrock. He was preceded in death and joyfully welcomed into heaven by his beloved wife of 65 years, Wilma; his parents, Helmer and Dorothy Schoenrock; his sister, Joyce Morgan; his son, Randy Schoenrock; and his grandson, Blake Schoenrock.

Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of James's life at 10:00 a.m. on December 27, 2025, at New Hope Funeral Home, 500 U.S. Highway 80, Sunnyvale, Texas. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in James's honor may be made to BMA Theological Seminary, P.O. Box 670, Jacksonville, Texas 75766 or to Alzheimer's Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Dr, Little Rock, AR 72205.