HUFFINES, JAMES LECIL (1923 ~ 2009). The following is an Associate Press article published upon the death of former Texas A&M University System regent James Lecil "J.L." Huffines. The article was published in a number of Texas newspapers on January 8, 2009.

"Businessman J.L. Huffines, who stepped down last month as a Texas A&M University System regent because of health issues, died Wednesday, the A&M system said in a news release.

Family members said Huffines, 85, died at his home in Dallas, the Texas A&M University System said.

Gov. Rick Perry appointed Huffines, chairman of Huffines Auto Dealerships, as a regent in July 2007.

'J.L. was an inspiration to me as an Aggie, an American and a Texan,' Perry said in a statement. 'He devoted his life to his family, served his country in time of war and built a business that employed countless Texans over the years.'

Board chairman Bill Jones said in a statement that Huffines was a great friend and pleasure to work with.

'He was devoted to doing the best for the A&M System and the people of Texas,' Jones said.

Huffines was known throughout North Texas for his family's string of car dealerships, but also made a mark in civic affairs and public leadership. Texas institutions he served include the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Funeral services are scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas. Burial will be Saturday in Austin at the Texas State Cemetery."

Further information is available through the Texas State Cemetery research department.