William James Draper

William James Draper was born January 8, 1946, in Shreveport, Louisiana to Jesse Glenn Draper Sr. and Sybil Draper. He passed away peacefully on September 8, 2024, with his family gathered by his side. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Jesse Glenn Draper, Jr. and Robert Louis Draper. His legacy is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Ann; sons, William James Draper, Jr. (Rhonda), Robert Daniel Draper (Shelly); grandchildren, Jade Danielle Freeman (Ty), Madison Brooke Draper (fiancé, Jackson Holmes), Megan E. Garcia (Keith), Jacob Paul Fudge (April); great-grandchildren, Keaton Bryant, Cason and Sam Fudge.

He graduated from C.E. Byrd High School, Class of 1963, and attended Northwestern State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business, Class of 1967. He was a member of the Black Knights Precision Drill Team. After graduation, he was hired by the Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. where he was named Best Young Salesman in the nation. As Vice President at Moore’s Retread and Tire Company, he set a high standard as to expectations for customer service. There was never a moment where he wasn’t teaching, whether by example or just in casual conversation. As a loving employer, he went out of his way to treat his employees as family.

Jimmy was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and cherished friend. He was a devout Christian who loved the Lord, and an active member of Ellerbe Road Methodist Church. He preached the “11th” Commandment, as Jesus told His disciples, “I command you to love one another, as I have loved you.” He gave generously, whether it be his time, knowledge, money or effort without expecting anything in return.

As an avid outdoorsman, Jim’s life was blessed beyond measure from the opportunities to play golf at Pebble Beach and St. Andrew’s to fishing in Alaska, Mexico and Costa Rica and elk hunting in New Mexico. On December 27, 1999, with a Moore’s Goodyear golf ball, he made a hole in one at Shreveport Country Club. In 1994, while fishing in Alaska, he set a state record for the largest Rockfish caught. He was also a loyal fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, LSU Tigers and NASCAR races.

A memorial service for William James (Jimmy) Draper will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Rose-Neath Southside Chapel, 2500 Southside Dr. in Shreveport. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. with service to follow at 12:00 p.m. Officiating will be Rev. John M. Korlaske and Dr. Thumper Miller. 

The family suggests memorials may be made to Ellerbe Road Methodist Church, 10130 Ellerbe Church Road, Shreveport, LA 71106 or Christus Hospice, 425 Ashley Ridge Boulevard, Suite 330B, Shreveport, LA 71106.