Memorial services for James Allen Cantrell, Jr. will be 10:00a.m., Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at First United Methodist Church. Dr. Ray Crawford will share words of comfort. James passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2017 at Brookdale Nursing Home in Tulsa. He was 88.
Born August 13, 1928 in Allewe, Oklahoma to James Allen Cantrell, Sr. and Lucy Cordelina (Wilson) Cantrell, James was reared and educated in Foyil. Following his schooling he attended Spartan School of Aeronautics. James married Doneta Jean Jennings on January 6, 1949 and made several places home until settling in Claremore. The couple has spent 58 years at their home west of Claremore. He served his country in the US Army. James worked as a tool and die maker for McDonnell Douglas, retiring in the mid 1980's.
James was quite the artist and could create a masterpiece out of any material. He enjoyed woodworking, and made many items for his family. They loved to travel and saw all but one state during their adventures. James loved taking care of his land and cattle. His purpose was to help out where he could and he extended that kindness to his church, volunteering at their food pantry.
A people person that loved to joke and have fun, James will be missed by all who knew him. Those family members that survive include his wife Doneta of their home in Claremore; his sons Jim Cantrell and wife Joan of South Dakota and John Roth Rock of Tulsa; his sister Rondia Lea Allison of Emporium, Kansas; 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great- grandchildren. James was preceded in death by his parents, daughters, Patty Davis and Stephanie Legg; brother, Frank Cantrell, and sisters, Velma McClanahan, Viola Wilson and Lucille Bennett.
View and sign James' online tribute at
www.mmsfuneralhomes.com