James Patrick McMahon Jr.

As we honor and remember James, I would love your help in creating a keepsake of memories for Poppy. She is still so young and may not remember all the incredible things about her father, but with your words, stories and memories, I hope to build something she can cherish as she grows older. Please take a moment to sign the online guestbook and share any thoughts or special moments you had with James. Thank you for your love and support, Kenda McMahon 

Celebrating the Life of James Patrick McMahon, Jr.

James Patrick McMahon, Jr., age 48, passed away peacefully at his home in Phoenix, AZ, on September 13, 2024, after a lengthy battle with cancer. James was born on May 6, 1976, in El Paso, TX, to Eleanor Faye and James P. McMahon. James attended schools in Brentwood, TN: Scales Elementary, Brentwood Middle School, and Franklin Road. He graduated from Brookstone School in Columbus, GA, where he played football and golf. 

James married Kenda Vierheller in Tulsa, OK, on August 15, 2009. After completing his degree in architecture from Oklahoma State University, the couple relocated to Seattle, WA. Two-plus years later, following another career move to Kansas City, MO, the couple was blessed with the birth of a beautiful daughter, Poppy James. For the past 2.5 years, the couple made their home in Phoenix, AZ. Kenda and James were kindred spirits. Together, they built a life around travel, immersing themselves in their new cities, real estate projects, culinary adventures, and spending quality time with Poppy.

James was a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend. Valued for his insightful and logical perspective, he was a true Renaissance man and will be remembered for his distinguished taste and the kindness he showed to all he met. A sports data enthusiast, his hobbies included cycling and building his bourbon collection. 

In addition to his devoted wife Kenda and his daughter Poppy, James is survived by his mother, Eleanor Faye McMahon, who during his illness, watched over him daily with unwavering care and love. We are forever grateful for her strength and dedication in being by his side every step of the way.

Survivors also include his sisters Kristine Smoot, Tiffany Brassfield (Dale), and Rachelle McMahon; brothers Ryan McMahon (Kirsten) and Dillon McMahon; nieces Nichele Brewer (Will), Bailey Brassfield and Riley Brassfield. 

Also surviving are his devoted in-laws, Robin and Dennis May, brothers-in-law Cody May (Angie), Casper May (Dana), sister-in-law Kali May, and seven nieces and nephews. The extended in-law family, with too many cherished members to name individually, has been an incredible source of foundational support throughout James and Kenda’s marriage. Their unconditional love, hope and faith will continue to sustain us in the days ahead.

James was preceded in death by his father, James Patrick McMahon.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 2 p.m., at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5111 S. Memorial Drive in Tulsa, OK.

Kenda and Poppy invite friends and loved ones to visit their home in Tulsa on Sunday, September 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. Feel free to come and go as you are able, as we gather to share memories and celebrate James’ life in an informal, loving setting. Please contact a family member for the address and further details.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the OSU Foundation-School of Architecture. The James Patrick McMahon, Jr., scholarship has been established so that Poppy may continue to follow her dad’s legacy for years to come. Checks should be made payable to the OSU Foundation and mailed to PO Box 1749 – Stillwater, OK 74076-1749 or gifts can be made online at https://secure.osugiving.com/s/giving/annual?dsgt=20-03700.

 Please note your donation is in memory of James Patrick McMahon, Jr.