James Bernard Shank Jr.'s Obituary
James Bernard Shank Jr., lovingly known as Jimbo or to most simply as Shank, passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 60.
Born on January 28, 1966, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jim was the cherished son of James Bernard Shank Sr. and June Shank, both of whom preceded him in death along with countless beloved dogs who surely greeted him first.
Jim lived in Pittsburgh for forty years until moving to the Houston area via Oklahoma. He was a man of quiet generosity, spontaneous joy, perfectly timed jokes and unwavering love. He had a gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. His laugh filled rooms and lifted the spirits of everyone around him. His presence made ordinary days feel lighter. He lived life fully — on his terms — with courage, humor, and the biggest heart.
Shank was larger than life, a lifelong athlete and held jobs as an actor, a Budweiser hand model, heavy machinery operator, utility and sports broadcasting before settling into 26 years in various roles for World Wrestling Entertainment.
He possessed an extraordinary work ethic and an unwavering dedication to his craft. Through discipline, grit, and relentless commitment, Shank built a wildly successful career and earned the deep respect of colleagues around the world. He believed in showing up early, staying late, doing things right, and taking care of his people.
He lived boldly, loved generously, and gave freely of himself to others. He was full of energy, and seemingly invincible — a man who made the impossible look easy. Even in the face of illness, he carried himself with grit, humor, and heart.
Above all, Jim had an unmatched devotion to his family. He is survived by his wife and “love of his life”, Leisa; his beloved stepson, Dylan; his brother, Jason Shank; his biological mother, Carol Elizabeth Hallett; and countless friends and extended WWE family members around the world who became brothers and sisters to him over the years.
The relationships he built over a lifetime were marked by loyalty, warmth, and authenticity. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, adventure, and connection that will continue to ripple through everyone who knew him.
He embodied vitality and determination, and loved problem solving, especially if it involved travel hacking or car negotiations. Though cancer took his body, it never took his spirit. The strength, joy, and love he poured into this world will continue to echo through the lives he touched.
Though our hearts are broken, we are profoundly grateful for the time we had — for the memories, the stories, the celebrations, and even the quiet ordinary moments that now feel sacred. He was one in a million — truly unforgettable.
A memorial service to celebrate Shank’s life will be held the evening of April 5th in Houston. Additional details will be shared with family and friends.
The family asks that you honor Shank by never taking a single day for granted. Live boldly. Give generously. Laugh loudly. Love without hesitation. Take the trip, have the hard conversations.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his honor to Connor’s Cure/The V Foundation or the Navy SEAL Foundation who do so much to help families in need.
May his memory forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
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