Anthony "A.J." James

York

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Anthony James “AJ” York announces his sudden passing on November 10, 2026, following a tragic accident in Port Arthur, Texas. Born on November 1, 1992, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Heather and Joseph James York, AJ moved to Galveston at age 13. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Lauren Simpton York, and their one-year-old son, Maverick James York.

A 2011 graduate of Galveston Ball High School, where he played basketball for the Tors, AJ built a dedicated career in the maritime industry. He started on push boats and tanker barges along the Intracoastal Waterway before transitioning to harbor tugs in Port Arthur, proudly serving as a harbor tug captain with Moran Towing at the time of his passing. Outside of work, AJ was above all a devoted husband, father and dedicated, hardworking provider who loved teaching Maverick to drive his electric trucks. An avid outdoorsman, he cherished spending his time off fishing, boating, jet skiing, and four-wheeling with Lauren and their many friends. Full of life and a big kid at heart, all the kids loved being around him. Known for his infectious smile, generous spirit, and wonderful sense of humor, AJ always wanted the best for everyone, found positivity in every situation, and brought light and laughter to everyone around him. He was the loyal friend you could always count on to drop everything and help someone in need.

AJ was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Judith Giovannini and paternal grandfather Walter A. York. He is survived by his wife Lauren, son Maverick, mother Heather Lambeth, father Joseph York, grandfathers John Giovannini and Paul Camitsch and Gunner the family’s four-legged friend.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, November 17, at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home in Galveston, Texas. Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m., followed by the service at 6:00 p.m.