Jim Kirkpatrick

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Leta Juanita Vaughn, who passed away on September 2, 1975 after 21 years of marriage. Together they had four children,James Michael, Leta Elizabeth Keener (married to Johnnie), William Dean (married to Tomi), and Richard Dale (married to Leslie).

Jim married Cindy Lou Ryan Kirkpatrick on January 31, 1977, and gained a son, Benjamin Stuart (married to Tina). They enjoyed nearly 47 years of marriage. Cindy felt blessed to have cared for him, and it was a true blessing for her to be with him and all his children during his final moments on earth.

Jim served his nation in the US Navy from 1952 to 1955, and upon returning to civilian life, he continued his service to the community as a Tulsa Firefighter from 1956 to 1976. His commitment to service was a defining aspect of his character.

Jim's mother was Beatrice Elizabeth Kopp; his father, Arthur William Kirkpatrick; and his siblings, Patrick Watson Kirkpatrick, William (Bill) Dewayne Kirkpatrick, Michael Terry Kirkpatrick, Kay Chowning, and Judy Fritzler.

Jim’s children did a wonderful job continuing his bloodline. His grandchildren, Jamie Lee Keener and Kyle Dean Kirkpatrick will meet him in heaven. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Stephanie Caldwell, Amanda Keener, Chadd Keener, Teri Keener, Kari Fine, Lacey Bangle, Trent Kirkpatrick, Rachel Gustin, Whitley Kirkpatrick, Whitney Trammel, Eric Kirkpatrick, and Mitchel Kirkpatrick.

His great-grandchildren include Amaris Keener, Anna Caldwell, Johnnie Caldwell, Dylan Wing, Rylee Burge, Oaklee Keener, Alex Gustin, Ben Kirkpatrick, Khayden Kirkpatrick, Daniel Fine, Gage Kirkpatrick, Kennen Fine, Adelynn Fine, Quinn Bangle, Braylon Kirkpatrick, Easton Kirkpatrick, Gracelyn Kirkpatrick, Ryann Truett, Kamden Kirkpatrick, Kurt Trammel, Kannon Trammel, Kinslee Trammel, and Emersyn Kirkpatrick.

Jim was renowned for his kindness, love, care, and humor, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. His life was a model of how to serve others with joy and generosity.

Jim's viewing will be held at Reed-Culver Funeral Home, 117 W. Delaware Street, Tahlequah, OK 74464, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 25, 2024.

Rest in peace, Jim. Your legacy of love and service will forever be cherished.