Leo James, 77, passed away Saturday morning, January 2nd, 2016 at Alliance Health Hospital, Clinton, Oklahoma.

The son of Cora LaFentie (Allen) and Noah Ruben James, Leo Earl James was born February 23, 1938 in Utleyville, Colorado. Leo graduated from Las Animas, Colorado High School. He and Mary Ellen Cole were united in marriage November 28, 1957 in Las Animas. Leo was a proud Veteran on the U.S. Marines Reserve. The James family moved to Guymon in 1969 and Leo established James Aerial Spraying, serving the area farmers for many years. Leo and Mary Ellen moved to Sayre, Oklahoma and later Foss, Oklahoma and Leo continued to drive a truck until this past year. Leo loved flying, enjoyed World War II history, and spending time with his family. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and husband and he will be missed.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Ellen James of the home in Foss; daughter, Teresa and husband, Ron Bates; son Kevin James, and daughter Kelly and husband, Mike Ritter; six grandchildren, Jacy and husband, Adam Post, Steven and wife, Rachael Ritter, A'Lana and husband, Andy Aronson, Luke and wife, Hyein Bates, Tobin Bates, and Dustin Martinez; and four great grandchildren, Kaden, Molly, Rance Ritter, and Nathan Post. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six sisters, and six brothers.

Funeral services will be Friday morning, January 8th, 10:30 AM at Henson-Novak Funeral Chapel, 501 NW Fifth, Guymon, with family friend, Rev. Odie Nunley, officiating. Interment will follow in Elmhurst Cemetery and are entrusted with Henson-Novak Funeral Directors.

Memorials may be given to Faith Hospice of Elk City, 222 West 3rd street, Elk City, Oklahoma 73644. Memorials will also be accepted by the funeral home.

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