His Journey on May 22, 1951, in Call, Texas, a baby boy blessed this world with his presence to a proud and loving mother, Sister Johnnie Mae McCain, and father, Steven Bean.

James grew up in the Call Community and attended schools in Kirbyville, TX. Shortly afterward, he discovered his career path and and began a successful truck driving career which spanned well over 40 years until his health began to fail; he was the happiest when he was driving his "Big Wheel" and spending time with family and friends. His larger than life personality made him the center of the room and he always had the ability to make others laugh.

In 1971, he married Gloria Evans Thomas, and from this union they were blessed to become the parents of two sons: James (Renata) Evans and Byron (Sonja) O'Keith. Later, he met Freda Henry and they gave birth to a son, James Jr. (Scooter), who is awaiting him with open arms. James is preceded in death by his mother, Johnnie McCain, and his youngest son, James "Scooter" Bean, Jr.

Late Sunday night, on October 11, 2020, God sent his angels to take James home and left to cherish his memories: his sons, James (Renata) Evens and Byron (Sonja) O'Keith; a daughter he chose, Ella (Raymond) Bennett; sister, Adrienne (Erskine); seven grandchildren, Kayla Evans, Merissa Laffitte, Allison Dawson, DeQuita Evans, Tabraja Bean, Reese Bennett, and J'Shyrick Bean; eleven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will dearly miss his presence.