James Curtis
August 14, 1960 - May 31, 2026
James Walter Curtis, 65, of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, passed away at his home on Sunday, May 31, 2026. He was born on August 14, 1960, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to James Burford Curtis and Evelyn (Gillum) Curtis. James lived a life marked by hard work, laughter, devotion to family, and a willingness to help others whenever he could. James spent his early childhood years in Catoosa before moving with his family to Locust Grove in 1973. He attended schools in both Catoosa and Locust Grove.
On December 11, 1986, James married the love of his life, Dawnya McClain, in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Together they built a loving home and shared nearly forty years of marriage, raising a family that became the center of James' world. Throughout his life, James was known for his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He owned and operated Curtis Home Improvements in Tulsa and Sunrise Bakery in Locust Grove. He also dedicated more than twenty years of service to Pursley Trucking.
Faith played an important role in James' life. He attended Lighthouse Assembly of God for several years and most recently attended Hope Church in Murphy. James enjoyed life to the fullest and found great joy in spending time outdoors. He was an avid golfer who proudly considered himself a "scratch golfer" and treasured the time he spent on the golf course. He also enjoyed fishing and coaching his children in their various sports activities. Whether on the sidelines, at the lake, or sharing stories with family and friends, James always found a way to bring laughter and encouragement to those around him.
Known for his funny and goofy nature, James was a natural jokester who could brighten any room. He was a hardworking man who never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Above all else, James loved his family. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
James is survived by: His beloved wife, Dawnya, of the home; 3 children: James Curtis, II and Carrie Ann of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, Amber Copeland-Tankersley and wife Nancy of Springdale, Arkansas, and Donnie Curtis and wife Ellie of Locust Grove, Oklahoma; 11 grandchildren: Taylor Curtis, Coby Curtis, Ethan Curtis, Erin Curtis, Nick Martin, Lexi Martin, Jace Curtis, Jonathan Curtis-Puckett, Adley Copeland, Olivia Curtis and Liam Curtis; 2 great grandchildren: Dakota Stricklen and Kutter Curtis; 4 siblings: Kathy Wendt and husband Bill of Locust grove, Oklahoma, Loretta Curtis of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, Tina Anderson and husband Tracy of Claremore, Oklahoma, and Mark Curtis and wife Shelly of Red Oaks, Oklahoma; As well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: James and Evelyn Curtis as well as 1 son: Jeremy Scott Curtis.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Locust Grove Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor Jason Jackson will deliver the message, and Randy Hennington will read the obituary. Interment will follow at Hogan Cemetery in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Services have been entrusted to Locust Grove Funeral Home. Memories, condolences, and tributes may be shared at Locust Grove Funeral Home.
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