James Alan “Al” Spinks, age 53, passed away on July 2, 2018 following a heart attack.A fifth generation cotton farmer, he was born in Midland, TX on July 23, 1964. After graduating from Robert E. Lee High School in Midland, Al attended Texas A&M University where he earned degrees in finance and accounting. He then earned an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. While much of his career was spent farming, later in life he was able to participate in a number of businesses from bicycle companies to a coffee shop and wine bar. More than an interest in business in and of itself, Al sought to use business to step into the gap so that others might succeed. His passion was making a way for others to flourish and he strongly believed there’s always enough for everyone. This was reflected in the way that he cared for his family, his friends, and his employees, but also in his dedication to refugees and asylum seekers.He is preceded in death by his parents Helen and Alan Spinks. He is survived by his wife Tamara Spinks; his stepmother Michelle Cobb; his children, Elle and Michael Boone, Ben Spinks, Maddie and Wes Carpenter, Sam Spinks and his fiancée Grace Hixson, Jad Rogers, and Elle Rogers; and his grandchildren Hudson and Lucy Boone.He lived life to the full, and enjoyed snow skiing, sailing, mountain biking, art classes, building more than seems possible, and playing with his kids and grandkids. Al was larger than life… and most chairs.The family will receive friends for a visitation from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm Thursday July 5, 2018 at The Branch at NPW, 3800 N. Big Spring St. Midland. The funeral service will be held on Friday July 6, 2018 at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church of Midland, 800 W. Texas Avenue, Midland.In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the DASH Network in support of asylum seeker housing: www.dashnetwork.net/give. Additionally, the family would appreciate the sharing of any stories you have of Al, and would love them to be sent to: alspinksstories@gmail.com.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.,
