James Hershel Argo was born on June 14, 1931, in Maud, Oklahoma, to William M. Argo and Dollye Argo. A beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, James passed in peace on Friday, January 11, 2019. He never hesitated to strike up a conversation with anyone. He was known for his pleasant attitude, infectious smile, and kind and compassionate spirit. He always thought of others first. Our “Grumpy,” as he liked to be called by his nine great-grandchildren, was loved and will be missed by all who knew him.
In 1936 his family moved to Norman. He grew up shining shoes at his father’s barber shop and washing dishes at his mother’s restaurant, Argo’s Café. He always joked about having to double date in high school because his roadster wouldn’t start without a push. He played football at Norman High and also played basketball on the 1948 Norman team with James Garner. He married his high school sweetheart Phyllis Jo Daniel.
James graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Economics. He worked faithfully for OG&E, retiring after 36 years. In his retirement he continued to care for his family, working to ensure all five grandchildren graduated from OU. He was a loving and dedicated husband and caregiver to his wife of 60 years. He cherished his monthly dinners with his high school classmates.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Jo Argo; his son, William Jeffrey Argo; his brother, William Howard Argo; and his parents, William and Dollye Argo.
He is survived by his son, James Leslie Argo; his son, John Daniel Argo and wife Marion; his grandchildren, Ashley Argo, Angela Baldonado and husband Thomas, Kelli Herndon and husband Stewart, John T. Argo and wife Aleisha, Cara Farris and husband Dru; and nine great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to the William Jeffrey Argo Scholarship Fund at the University of Oklahoma Foundation, 100 Timberdell Road, Norman, OK 73019-0685 (oufoundation.org) or to the church or charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Thursday, January 17, 2019, at McFarlin United Methodist Church with Rev. Harriette Leigh, officiating. Burial will follow in Norman IOOF Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Primrose Funeral Service. Please visit our online guestbook at www.primrosefuneralservice.com.
