James Leo Breazeale Jr. (Jim) passed away peacefully at the age of 75 surrounded by his beloved wife and children on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, cherished by his wife of 54 years, Trudy Breazeale, and their children: James Breazeale and his wife Cecially; Denise Gilbert and her husband Wendell, Charles Breazeale and his wife Tabitha, Rebekah Aguilar and her husband Justin. He is also survived by his mother, Gloria Breazeale; brother Wendell Breazeale and his wife Tracy, sister Rene Cole and her husband Mark; niece Ellie Cole; and 20 grandchildren Bailey, Mercy, Renna (Michael), Judah, Levi, Eden, Charisma, Caleb (Kylie), Jaden (Diamond), Cade, Cason, Jaxson, Autumn, Everleigh, Timothy, Hadassah, Adaline, Hannah, Gideon and Isaac. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Rory and MJ.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Leo Breazeale, and his grandson Micah Wendell Gilbert.

Born on October 3, 1949, in Houston, Texas, Jim graduated from Sam Houston High School in January 1968. That same year, he was drafted by the Atlanta Braves as the eighth pick in the first round in the Major League Baseball Draft. Jim went on to play four seasons in the Major Leagues, three with the Braves (1969, 1971-1972), and one with the Chicago White Sox (1978). Over the course of 13 years, he played and managed in both Major and Minor league baseball.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Trudy Elaine Ferguson, on October 9, 1970. Together, they traveled the country during his baseball career, raising their children while Jim pursued his passion for the game. He enjoyed sharing countless stories with his children and grandchildren about the places he lived and the legendary athletes he had the privilege of playing alongside.

A man of strong faith, Jim served as a deacon at Abundant Life Fellowship Church for 12 years and was a dedicated member of the congregation for 26 years.

Jim's love for his family was evident in everything he did. He cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren, particularly through his love of fishing, hunting, and sporting events. He spent many hours wade-fishing in the surf while living in Sargent, Texas, and enjoyed deer hunting in Fredericksburg. One of his greatest joys in later life was vacationing with his family each summer, where their time was centered around outdoor activities and sporting competitions.

In his final weeks, Jim reflected on his life and legacy, grateful for the family and friends who visited him. He had the opportunity to offer blessings, prayers, and encouragement to his children and grandchildren, a beautiful testament to God's grace in every season of life.

Funeral services will be officiated by Pastor Greg McMullin at Abundant Life Fellowship Church in Bay City. A public viewing will take place on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM.

Pallbearers will be Bailey Breazeale, Cade Breazeale, Cason Breazeale, Levi Breazeale, and Caleb Gilbert. He will be laid to rest in the Cedarvale Bay City Cemetery following the service.