James Frederick Ketcham was born on September 21, 1948, and went home to be with his Lord and Savior on May 18, 2026.

 Fred was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Henry Ketcham of Santa Rosa, Texas. He leaves behind the love of his life and devoted wife of 52 years, Sharon Wheaton Ketcham; his son, Hunter Ketcham and wife Luci of Lake City, Florida; and his daughter, Lorain Keath and husband Hunter of Harlingen. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Stanton Keath, Leighton Ketcham, Hadleigh Keath, and Hunter Ketcham, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his mother, Joyce Brown Ketcham of Santa Rosa, and his sisters Nancy Yeary (Mike) of Kingsville, Bonnie Keener (David) of Harlingen, and Kay McCorkle of Corpus Christi, as well as in-laws Larry Wheaton (Leslie) of Rio Hondo, Jerry Wheaton (Jacque) of Iola, Herman Wheaton (Cathy) of Iola, and Nadalee Allen (Bret) of Knippa, in addition to numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews whom he loved. 

Fred lived a life by the cowboy way, defined by faith, hard work, and a genuine love for people. Over the years, he worked for the Missouri Pacific Railroad, Triton Energy Hunting Camp, La Paloma Ranch, and later owned his own contract labor business, Buen Gente. No matter where life took him, he poured himself fully into his work and the people around him. His faith and service to others were cornerstones of his life. Fred served as a former Gideon, was a member of the Riviera School Board, and faithfully served as a deacon at the Community Baptist Church in Riviera. He believed deeply in helping others, leading with kindness, and living his faith through action. 

Fred found joy in hunting, fishing, and most especially in spending time with family and friends. He never met a stranger and had a rare gift for making everyone feel special. His larger-than-life personality, contagious laughter, and unforgettable storytelling could brighten any room. Whether sharing stories, pulling a prank, playing dominoes, lending a helping hand, or simply sitting and visiting, Fred made people feel at home. 

More than anything, Fred cherished the relationships he built throughout his life. He was authentic, generous, and selfless — the kind of man whose impact will continue to be felt through the countless lives he touched. His family and friends will remember him not only for what he did, but for how deeply he loved and how fully he lived.

 The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for their MD Anderson doctors and staff, along with the therapists at Colsten Rehab & Therapy, and their numerous friends and church family who have provided so much love and support. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church Kingsville. A lunch reception will be held immediately following. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Wings of Faith Building Fund at First Baptist Church Kingsville or to a charity of your choice.

For those who wish to express their condolences, you are welcome to share your heartfelt condolences with the family by adding an entry on the online guest book below.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. 361-592-5634 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com