James Alton Cope, 81, of Garden City, Texas passed away Sunday, January 20, 2019 at his residence. Graveside funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Friday, January 25, 2019 at the Garden City Cemetery.He was born July 3, 1937 in San Angelo, Texas to William Brownlow Cope and Nellie Powell Cope. He married Mary Jo Cox March 3, 1958 at her parents’ home in Glasscock County.He moved with his parents to Glasscock County from Eola, Texas in 1947. While living there he helped his father raise cotton on their farm. He graduated from Garden City High School in 1955. After his marriage to Mary Jo, they moved to Port Arthur, Texas where he attended Electronic Technician school. He attained his FCC license and began a career in the electronic and communications field where he owned A & B Electronics in Hobbs, NM then later, Cope Communications. He and Mary Jo returned to Garden City in 1988 where he continued to run his business and ranched for a number of years.Survivors include his wife, Mary Jo Cope of Garden City; sons, Brian Cope and wife, Laurie of Dallas, Texas and Scott Cope of Kiowa, Colorado, a daughter, Karen Wheeler and husband, Andy of Garden City; his grandchildren, Lauren, Craig, and Lee Wheeler; a sister, Billie Faye Frank and husband, Jim of Midland, Texas.He was preceded in death by his parents.The family suggests memorials be made to a charity of your choice.Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com ,
