James Douglas West

James Douglas West, a cherished family man, respected veteran, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. Born on December 29, 1943, in Hanna, Oklahoma, to Hershel Benjamin and Vera Nadine (Schenider) West, James's early years in the close-knit community shaped the man he would become - one of integrity, courage, and a touch of charm.

James's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his country and community. After attending Hanna High School, where he laid the foundation for a lifetime of friendships and values, he answered the call of duty and served with distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. Attaining the rank of Sergeant, James's time in the service was characterized by the honor and dedication that would become his hallmark. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home, carrying with him the discipline and leadership skills that would serve him well in his next role as a Deputy Sheriff in Mexia, Texas. There, James's steadfast nature and sense of justice earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he served until his well-deserved retirement.

James's life was not all work; he had a playful side that those close to him knew well. His interest in flirting with women was a source of much amusement and storytelling, showcasing his endearing wit and charisma. These moments of light-heartedness provided a balance to his serious dedication to duty, revealing the multifaceted nature of a man who could be both a protector and a charmer.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Tracy West, his parents, and his sisters, Faye McKinney and Lavon Guinn. His legacy continues through his daughters, Ann Wood, and Denise Ware, all of Columbus, Georgia, James's memory will also be held dear by his siblings, Mary Hammontree and her husband Marvin of Valrico, Florida; Katie Bowden and her husband Fred of Oktaha, Oklahoma; Eddie West and his wife Shirley, Barbara Pendley and her husband Buddy, both of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; and Donna Berryman and her husband Joe of Okmulgee, Oklahoma. His warmth and wisdom will be missed by his niece, Trena Coker and husband John of Oklahoma, nephew Jimmy McKenny and wife Carol and their son James of Okmulgee and his two grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Also a host of cousins and other relatives and friends.

Viewing for James will be on Monday, February 12, 2024 from 4:00 PM till 8:00 PM at Integrity Funeral Service, 410 East Trudgeon Street, Henryetta, Oklahoma, 74437.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Fort Gibson National Cemetery Pavilion in Fort, Gibson, Oklahoma. Military Honors will be provided by the funeral honors team from Fort Sill Oklahoma.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bradley West, Rodney West, John Coker, James "Jammie" McKinney, Seth Russel and Mark Bowden. Honorary pallbearers will be Kaiden West and Alex Bowden.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Integrity Funeral Service, 410 East Trudgeon Street, Henryetta, Oklahoma 74437, 918-652-6600, www.integrityfuneralservice.com.