James was born on January 25, 1923 to Bertie L. and Carrie (Frost) Bulen in Mill Creek, OK. He served in the US Army Air Corps during WWII as a pilot. On April 24, 1944 he married Ruby Thomas at Reese AFB. Following his military service, James worked for Interstate Securities, Commercial Credit Corps., and the end of his career at American State Bank for a total of 38 years. James was a member of Highland Baptist Church and the Yellowhouse Masonic Lodge 841 for over 60 years. James enjoyed travelling with his family across the US and Canada with his travel trailer. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Helen Norton and Marge Miller, a brother, Donald Bulen, and a great granddaughter, Danae Donald. James is survived by his loving wife, Ruby E. Bulen of Lubbock; two sons, James D. Bulen and wife Barbara, and Steve Bulen, three grandchildren, Stacy Bulen, Tony Bulen, and Nikki Donald,; and 6 great-grandchildren. Memorials are suggested to the Lubbock Meals on Wheels, 2304 34th Street, Lubbock. Texas 79411.