James Alexander Shown, the beloved spouse of Ruby Shown, passed from this life peacefully on January 31, 2025, at the St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, OK surrounded by family members. He was 80 years old.
James received limited formal education but possessed a wealth of practical knowledge and skills that served him well throughout his life. He had a diverse career as a welder, carpenter, truck driver, logger and numerous other occupations where his hard work and dedication were evident in all that he did. He was commonly referred to as a "Jack of all Trades".
James was preceded in death by his parents Neal and Eunice Shown, his brother Glen Shown, and his sister Victoria Hunt. He is survived by his spouse, Ruby Shown of Antlers, OK, his sons: Heath Shown of Elgin, IL, Richard and Celia Armstrong of Broken Arrow, OK, James and Jamie Armstrong of Antlers, OK, and Kevin and Krysten Shown of Ada, OK. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Sarah Armstrong, Dustin Cotton, Haden Armstrong, Devan Sparks, Jessica Armstrong, Hailey Shown, Neal Shown, and Ryan Shown; and his great-grandchildren: Finn Sparks, James Cotton, Cora Sparks, Jaxon McMurry, Emma McMurray, and Michael Pelts, along with other cherished family members and friends.
An avid outdoorsman, James found joy in hunting, fishing, camping and the occasional trapping season. These were not just hobbies, but a way of life that brought him peace and happiness, and he shared many memorable moments with his loved ones while pursuing these endeavors.
James was also a Military Veteran who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was never deployed overseas, but did serve stateside.
A service to celebrate James's life will be held at Serenity Funeral Home in Antlers, OK on February 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by graveside service at the Byars Cemetery in Byars, OK at 2:00 PM.
Pallbearers: Heath Shown, Richard Armstrong, James Armstrong, Kevin Shown, Lee Roy Fisher, Harvey Fisher.
Honorary Pallbearers: Jim Fisher, Leroy Fisher, Dustin Cotton, Haden Armstrong, Neal Shown, Ryan Shown, Buddy Fisher, John Fisher.
James will be remembered for his love of nature and the outdoors, his gruff and strong nature, and his strong work ethic. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed.