A Memorial Service celebrating the life of James J. Alley, Jr. will be 11:00a.m., Friday, September 12, 2014, at Crowell Heights Baptist Church, 1301 S. Canton Tulsa, Oklahoma 74112. Friends may visit at Inola Funeral Home from 1-8pm. Thursday, September 11. James’s family will receive visitors from 6-8p.m.
James passed away on September 9, 2014 at the age of 80.
James J. Alley, Jr. was born September 14, 1933 in Mason, Oklahoma to James J. Alley, Sr. and Cerillar (Blackwell) Alley. He was reared and educated in his birth community of Mason before moving and graduating from Okemah High School. Following his schooling, James began working at a car dealership as a mechanic. He later worked in the parts department where he enjoyed a 20 year career. James attended the Highway Patrol Academy in Norman where he earned his certification and became a Highway Patrol Officer, first in Weatherford then Clinton and later Muskogee. James’ last career was in truck driving, working for Ryder.
On November 30, 1998, James married Carol (Martin) Alley and they have made their home in Inola for the last 12 years. The couple enjoyed traveling and loved being outdoors. James was a talented wood carver and showcased his creations at many different woodworking shows, his favorite one was at Eureka Springs. In 2006, James had a stroke that left him not able to carve. This didn’t deter him though; he retrained himself to use his left hand and with some time was able to continue his beloved hobby. James loved people and could carry on a conversation with anyone.
A loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, James will be missed by all who knew him. Those family member that survive include his wife Carol of their home in Inola; his sons Randy Alley and wife Karen and Tom Alley and wife Lisa all of Broken Arrow; his grandchildren Kendal Chastine and husband Ryan of Broken Arrow, Matt Alley of Tulsa, Hannah Alley, Eric Alley and wife Lindsey, Ryan Alley and wife Nicole, Taylor Alley and Lauren Alley all of Broken Arrow; his great grandchildren Skylar Alley and Parker Alley; his brother Talmage Alley of Inola; his sisters Birdie Lovell of Henrietta, Texas, Ruby Griffith of Yukon and Helen Jones of Pennsylvania. James was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Marvin and Gilbert Alley, sisters Nadine Alley, Marie McCullough, Olina Shea and an infant sister.