James R. "Jimmy" Francis

Graveside services for James Rufus “Jimmy” Francis, 72, of Ochelata, were held Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at Rest Haven Cemetery in Sperry, OK. Reverend Dale Nielsen officiated. Casket bearers were Josh Lara, Taylor Thurman, Jordan Lara, Jason Weathers, Tyler Francis, Noah Garcia and Cody Jo Francis.

Jimmy was born May 5, 1945 in Lynwood, CA to Lindel and Ethel Marie (Widner) Francis. He passed away July 30, 2017 in Ochelata, OK.

Jimmy was a United States Army veteran, as well as a retired truck driver, and salvage mechanic, and custodian at Caney Valley Schools. He enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren’s sporting events, collecting his “treasures” and Elvis memorabilia, watching old westerns, particularly, John Wayne, and going to the casino, and motorcycle riding.

He is survived by his wife of 50 fun years, Barbara June Francis of the home; children, Dawn Garcia and husband Vincent of Freeport, TX, Jamie Thurman and husband Steve of Claremore, Gov’nor Francis and wife Terri of Bartlesville, Sammie Francis and wife Angie of Collinsville, Jason Weathers of Sperry and Jacob Francis and wife Haylee of Skiatook; 17 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Jo Ann Amos and husband Larry of Turley; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lindel and Ethel Francis; brothers, Jackie Lee Francis and Donald Francis; sister, Sharon Francis; daughters, Toni Weathers, and infant twins.