James Serner

April 23, 1939 ~ January 31, 2017

© Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home

Submitted by: Becky Rodgers

James Serner, a lifelong resident of Mead, Oklahoma, and beloved family member, passed from this life on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at the age of 77 years 9 months and 8 days. He was born on April 23, 1939 in Mead, Oklahoma to Brady and Winnie (Cantrell) Serner. James married the love of his life Beverly Knowles in Mead, Oklahoma on August 24, 1963.

James proudly served his country and state as a member of the Oklahoma National Guard 45th Infantry division. He as a faithful servant of his Lord Jesus Christ, and served as a member and deacon of the Mead Baptist Church. James cared deeply about people and always made himself available when there was a need for leadership in the Mead Baptist Church; he started the Boys Royal Ambassadors program, and the Bus Ministry in 1972 (he drove the bus until 1995), also he was the Outreach Director. He had a strong work ethic and held many jobs over his lifetime; he was the produce manager of Pay & Take It for 10 years, he was employed by Bryan County District 1, then for the State of Oklahoma Department of Transportation (DOT). James enjoyed tending to his cattle and visiting with his friends. His family said, “he never met a stranger.” James’ greatest joy was watching his family grow and loving the Lord. He spent many hours teaching the grandchildren to play dominoes, and driving them around the ranch on his gator. He loved deeply and was loved so much in return.

Mr. Serner is survived by his wife, Beverly Serner of the home; sons, Allen Brit Serner and wife Brande of Calera, Oklahoma and Jason C. Serner and wife Nicole of Terlton, Oklahoma; beloved grandchildren, Amanda Lee and husband Brian of Calera, Oklahoma, Luke Serner of Kingfisher, Oklahoma, Levi Serner of Terlton, Oklahoma and Benjamin Serner of Terlton, Oklahoma; great-grandchildren, Harmony Lee, Spencer Lee, Scout Lee, Huck Lee and Stone Lee; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Serner was preceded in death by his parents, Brady and Winnie Serner; brothers, Vernon, Donnie, Earl and Walter Serner; and sister, Wanda Payne.

Family Hour will be from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Friday February 3rd at the Holmes~ Coffey~ Murray Funeral Home. A church service will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday February 4, 2017 at the Mead Baptist Church in Mead with Bro. Kerry Groce officiating. Interment will follow at Mead Cemetery in Mead. Serving as pallbearers will be Luke Serner, Brian Lee, Clint J. Dill, James Pratt, Jimmy Dill, and John Wilmoth.

Mr. Serner’s family request that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Mead Baptist Church Falls Creek Fund, 321 S. Church St., Mead, Oklahoma 73449.

Family and friends may send online condolences and view tributes at www.holmescoffeymurray.com

Services are under the direction of Holmes Coffey Murray Funeral Home, Durant, Oklahoma.