James Robert "Jim" Mezger

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved James Robert "Jim" Mezger on August 27, 2026. Born on August 31, 1945, in Great Falls, Montana, he made his way to Texas within just a few months of his birth. Raised on a ranch in Kempner, Texas, Jim developed a lifelong passion for agriculture and history. He was a loyal, funny, humble, and reliable man who devoted himself to his family, his work, and the things he loved. 

Jim graduated from Texas A&M University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Ag Education. He went on to spend the majority of his career in agricultural credit, retiring as a vice president from Farm Credit Bank of Texas in 1996 after more than 20 years of service. Even after retiring, he kept working for over a decade as an independent credit reviewer for Farm Credit Bank of Texas and Oklahoma. His professional success was matched by his personal passions. 

Jim was a proud 52 year member of the Lothrop Masonic Lodge No. 21. A dedicated 4-H supporter since childhood, he earned numerous top accolades for his show steer and other animals, including honors from the Houston Livestock Show and the San Antonio Livestock Show. Jim was also endlessly curious about history, genealogy, and Native American artifacts, always eager to learn something new. 

At the heart of Jim's life was his love and devotion to family. He was happily married to Janet Beth Close Mezger for nearly 60 years, beginning their life together on September 10, 1966. Their marriage was blessed with two children, John Layton Mezger and Melissa Lynn Mezger Koehler, whose families brought Jim great joy and pride throughout his life. 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Janet; his son, John Layton Mezger, and John's wife, Ashley, and their children, Layton, Reese, and Hudson; and his daughter, Melissa Lynn Mezger Koehler, and her husband, Scott, and their daughter, Samantha. He is also survived by his brother, Bill Mezger; his niece, Lacy Mezger Hart; and his nephews, Matt Mezger and Will Mezger. 

Jim's love for his family was matched only by his affection for his sweet furry companions, Abby, Coco, and Peaches, who gave him years of happiness and companionship. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Lynn Mezger and Martha Farrell; his brother, Leslie Mezger; and his sister-in-law, Katherine Norgaard Mezger. Jim will be remembered for the love he gave so freely to his family and for the memories he built with those closest to him. 

Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 1:00 pm CDT at Midlothian Funeral Home, 200 East Avenue East, Midlothian, Texas, 76065, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 pm CDT at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Lampasas County 4-H. Please note "James Mezger Memorial" on the check and mail to: 409 S. Pecan St., Suite 102, Lampasas, TX 76550. Memorial donations can also be made to Cal Farley's Boys Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, online at CalFarley.org.