James E Begay Sr. 68, a resident of Bayard, passed away Friday, February 20, 2015 at Mountain View Regional Medical Center in Las Cruces, NM.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 in the morning on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at St Francis Newman Center with Father Raymond Flores officiating. Concluding services and interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full Military Honors.

He was born in Fort Defiance, AZ on February 21, 1946. James was known as "Jim" or "Edward" and was a mechanic who retired from Phelps Dodge. He earned a brown belt in karate; he served in the Marine Corps, and went to combat in the Vietnam War. He was awarded several medals, including a Purple Heart and a National Defense Service Medal. He was a very generous man, loved to be outdoors, go fishing and camping with his kids and grandkids and will be greatly missed by many.

Survivors are his wife of 44 years, Nellie Begay, one son, James Begay Jr., two daughters, Jennie Sam and Margaret Begay. Four granddaughters, Gabby, Emmy, Jade and Sage Begay. Two grandsons, PJ and Tyrese Sam. Other survivors are his brother Thomas Begay, in- laws, The Francisco's and many other family members and personal friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Serving as pallbearers will be Clay Cooper, Justin and Jacob Francisco, Anthony Flores, PJ Sam and Sage Begay.