James Kevin Kavanagh

Dr. James Kavanagh, 74, passed away on December 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, D.C., on September 11, 1950, James led a life of service, dedication, and love for his family, his patients, and his country.

Growing up in a military family, James lived across the world, including the Azores, Germany, California, Colorado, and Texas. This unique upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of duty and adaptability.

In 1979, while applying for jobs before starting medical school, James met Febes Pado at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, where she worked. Their love story began there, and they were married on August 22, 1981, in San Antonio, Texas. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and shared values.

James attended Thomas Jefferson Medical School, graduating in 1984, and completed his residency and fellowship in Anesthesia at Baylor Medical Center in Houston, Texas.

In 1988, Dr. Kavanagh joined the United States Air Force as an anesthesiologist and was stationed at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. During his time in the Philippines, he participated in "Operation Smile Philippines," providing life-changing care to children with cleft palates and cleft lips. He also participated in numerous medical missions, including mission work in Honduras, reflecting his commitment to helping others. In 1990, he was reassigned to Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, where he served until separating from the Air Force in 1991.

After his military service, Dr. Kavanagh moved to Waco, Texas, to join Mid-Tex Anesthesia, where he worked primarily at Providence Hospital from 1991 until his retirement in 2017. Throughout his career, he was deeply devoted to his patients and colleagues, earning a reputation as a compassionate and skilled physician.

James came from a family of accomplished physicians. His father, Dr. John J. Kavanagh, and his brother, Dr. John Joseph Kavanagh, shared his passion for medicine. He was preceded in death by them, as well as his mother, Christine K. Veach. His brother, John, passed in 2022.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Febes Kavanagh; his children, Lt. Col. Sean Kavanagh (married to Christa), Jessica Kavanagh, and Erik Kavanagh (married to Kaitlyn); his beloved grandchildren, Michael, Rachel, John Harvey, Elizabeth, Carrington, and Callan; his loyal German Shepherd, Shep; and his lifelong best friend, Jeff Cypert, along with Jeff’s wife, Jennifer, and their son, Zach, who was like an adopted nephew to James.

Above all, James loved and devoted himself to his family, finding immense joy in the lives and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He approached life with unwavering dedication and love, leaving a legacy that will forever inspire those who knew him.

A memorial service to celebrate James’ life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Grace Gardens Funeral Home in Waco, Texas. The family invites friends and loved ones to share memories and stories as they honor a life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you donate to a charity of your choosing.