James “Jimmy” Sims Polk III

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of James “Jimmy” Sims Polk III, who ran into Jesus’s arms on April 28, 2025. He was born on August 27, 1984, in Beaumont to Kathleen Lucille Doland “Kathy” and James Sims Polk Jr. “Simbo”.

The survivors of this tragedy include his wife, Madeline Claire Kincer Polk; grandmother, Nettie Lee Polk “Granny”; sisters, Christine “Chrissy” Vega of Houston; Sarah Vega of Austin; Rebekah Vega “Becky” of Leander; brother, Jeremy Polk of Kerrville; nieces, Caroline Lucille “Lucy” Horwitt; nephew, Lennon Horwitt both of Leander; dogs, Chopper and Graham; cats, Beanie, Mash and Taquito. This does not include the abundance of family in aunts, uncles, cousins, or the friends that he poured so much time and love into, who became family along the way.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents, Kathy and Simbo; grandfather, James Sims Polk Sr, “grandad”; maternal grandparents, Priscilla and William Doland; cats, Remington, Lucy, Sandy, and Sanji.

Jimmy was a collector with many niche interests, including commodities, various hobbies, and friends. He valued connection and had the unique ability to turn strangers into best friends. Despite a challenging upbringing with the loss of his parents at a young age, he never ran from meaningful relationships. There was an open-door policy in Jimmy’s life for those seeking solace and companionship without judgment.

Jimmy enjoyed music, concerts, playing video games, anime, Magic The Gathering, board games, dice, Halloween parties, Renaissance Festivals, Fantasy Football, and BBQing.  Between the ages of 18-37, his house was home to many people. There were roommates, couch crashers, day relaxers, and everyone in between. He provided a refuge from the challenges for everyone who entered his life with a lending ear, an act of service, or a hot meal. Jimmy was the best Pit Master in all of Beaumont, his home was the most inclusive VIP dinner spot in town, he poured love and time into mastering a craft that brought people together. He had a contagious laugh, a witty sense of humor, and provided rational advice that kept people coming back.

Jimmy loves his siblings and their families deeply. He was incredibly proud of the amazing ladies his younger sisters have grown up to become. He loved his niece and nephew and cherished time spent with them. The thing that Jimmy did best was spending quality time with the people that he loved. When you were with him, you felt seen and heard. Everyone who knows Jimmy has a story of the impact he made on their life. He was kind, patient, loving, joyful, and generous beyond understanding.

February 11^th, 2022, his then-girlfriend (later wife) informed him they were officially boyfriend and girlfriend. While his character never changed, the rest of his life did. From that day forward until his death, all he did was pour into her. They spent almost every single day together building a life they were proud of. Jimmy and Mady spent their weekends traveling around Texas, eating at good restaurants, attending concerts, visiting friends and family, and truly enjoying life. On February 14^th, 2025, they became one with the most beautiful, intentional, and spiritual marriage.  Jimmy and Mady had the most amazing two and a half months of being husband and wife. Jimmy was so proud of the woman he chose to spend the rest of his life with. They began attending The Anchor of Beaumont between weekend trips, which transformed them into faithful members of a wonderful congregation. Jimmy got to experience the joy that comes from living in the spirit and loving Jesus Christ.

While his unexpected passing is tragic and devastating to many, the testament to his character is an inspiration. His life and legacy will live on in everyone’s heart as a lesson to be patient, kind, and generous with every resource you have.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Jimmy Polk Memorial Fund, c/o The Anchor of Beaumont, 6655 Highway 105, Beaumont, Texas 77708.

A gathering of Jimmy’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A Celebration of Life will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 5, 2025, at The Anchor of Beaumont, 6655 Highway 105, Beaumont.