James Ray "Beat Nick" McCormick, 74, passed away on January 15, 2026. Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 am at Praise Center Ministries. Private Disposition under the direction of Griffin Mortuary. James Ray “Beat Nick” McCormick was born on February 23, 1951, to the late Nelson and Birtlean Foster McCormick. He departed this life leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, creativity, and love for family.

James was the oldest of five children and learned early in life the value of hard work and the importance of a dollar. Those lessons shaped his character and guided him throughout his years. He attended Lubbock Independent School District schools and graduated from Dunbar High School in 1970.

A true lover of poetry, James embraced the art of words and expression. He and his dear friend, Eric Strong, shared a passion for exploring various styles of poetry and together co authored a book of poems. James was also an avid reader, having read more than 15,000 books during his lifetime—an extraordinary accomplishment that reflected his deep love for learning and knowledge.

Throughout his life, James held many jobs, sometimes working several at the same time to provide and build a future. In 1971, he made history as the first Black cameraman at KLBKTV in Lubbock, Texas. He also worked at several Diamond Shamrock service stations, delivered newspapers for the West Texas Times and the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, and served as a laundry attendant at various laundromats. His final and longest place of employment was with White Swan, later known as US Foods, where he faithfully worked for 45 years.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Nelson and Birtlean Foster McCormick, and his brother, Larry McCormick. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Nancy Moreno, O-Dyan Miller, Terrance King, and Brandon Durham; his siblings: Sandra Kay McCormick; Joyce Childers (Carey Don); and Ronald “Cookie” McCormick (Darlene). He is also survived by four great-aunts: Ester Colfer, Eva Calhoun, Louise Foster, and Jerelene Brown; 10 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; 1 niece; 5 nephews; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.