Staley Mausoleum - Wichita Falls, TX - Mausoleums on Waymarking.com

According to Findagrave (see below), James Irven Staley, Sr. was the founder of the Staley Oil Co, having gotten his start at a bank up in Burkburnett and subsequently establishing his fortune. He is interred here with his first wife, Alice Bethanie (Blair) Staley; his second wife, Cordelia Elthania (Hawkins) Staley; his father, Joseph Albert Staley; a daughter, Eloise Zephie (Staley) Zimmerman; and interestingly, the governess to two sons (James, Jr., and Jack, who are buried behind the mausoleum), Bernice Ruby Hindman. Miss Hindman ultimately was the Secretary-Treasurer and a member of the board of Staley Oil Co, and had quite a civic career herself.

History: There is no date on the mausoleum, but that "J.A. Staley" is above the door suggests that it may have been constructed around 1932, when Mr. Staley passed on. While his son was more prominent in Wichita Falls, father Staley was of pioneer stock -- his own father was killed in an "Indian raid" in Wise County -- and he built up his own fortunate as a rancher/cattleman along the route leading up to the Chisholm Trail. Ultimately, he was successful as a businessman in the budding town of Burkburnett before handing over the reins of his business to his son. The stone mausoleum has a Classical design, with two impressive polished marble columns and stone planters flanking the front steps. When the light is good, there is a beautiful stained glass window visible through the doors, protected by bars and impeding its view from outside. Visiting Hours/Restrictions: Daylight hours Address: 4441 Southwest Parkway Wichita Falls, TX USA 76308 Website: [Web Link]

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