James "Jimmy" Greer, founder of Haley-Greer and Greer Architectural Products, passed away on Oct. 20, 2024.
Greer began his career working for his father at Shelton W. Greer Co., installing roof decking on schools and commercial buildings. His career quickly expanded into door and window storefront systems, and over the years he became a prominent player in high-rise glass exterior construction, founding Haley-Greer and Greer Architectural Products. He was also a founder of Baker Metal Products and numerous other construction-related firms.
A prolific deal man, Greer founded numerous commercial banks, including Greenway Bank and Trust and Riverway Bank. He proudly served on the board of directors of Service Corporation International, AmeriCredit and Cash America. In real estate, he developed dozens of buildings and hotels in Texas and the Bahamas. Greer served as a University of Houston Regent where he was recently honored for his lifetime achievements.
Greer was born on Nov. 18, 1926, in San Francisco, California, to Louise Roumiguiere and Shelton W. Greer. The family moved to Houston in 1928, where Greer attended Lamar High School before heading off to Texas A&M in 1943. In 1945, he volunteered to serve in World War II. Upon his return from service, Greer attended the University of Houston, graduating in 1954 with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. Shortly after graduation, Greer married Dorothy Ann (Dot) Nini, his beloved wife of 52 years.
