James Richards

James Marquis Richards, 81, known to many as "Jim, Big Pop, Grandpa, Jimmy" and loved by all. Jim passed away from complications of pancreatic cancer on Saturday, August 24, 2013 @ 9:19 pm. He was surrounded by family and loved ones at home in Edmond, OK. Jim was born February 15, 1932 @ 1:25 pm in Seminole, OK to William M. and Vera B. (West) Richards. Jim joined the Air Force in 1949 and proudly served until 1952. He had two children from his first marriage; he later married Anita Joy Parker who had two children from a previous marriage. Jim joined Lawson Products sales team selling maintenance products within one of the largest territories in OK. Jim's leadership and sales ability led him to be promoted to district sales manager, he held that position for many years. His hard work and dedication won him many sales contests; salesman of the month and of the year awards, he was continuously recognized for his leadership, ability to meet and exceed sales quotas, leading his sales team by example. Jim led his district to win many vacations for his salesmen & their spouses. He developed life-long friendships with his co-workers and customers alike throughout his 42 yr. career with Lawson. Jim loved keeping busy, loved his job and continued to serve his customers long after most in his position would have retired. Only recently did failing health force him into semi-retirement, as he never did fully retire. Jim was respected and admired by all who knew him for his many qualities, especially for his uncanny ability to overcome adversity, as he did his entire life. Jim was a constant fixture in his community as well. Jim loved shooting the breeze, telling stories & sharing jokes with his many friends, whether it be at the bowling alley or his favorite neighborhood haunt "Friends" for a chat and a friendly game of pool after many a long day of work! He loved playing sports of all kinds such as golfing, hunting, boating, camping. Jim was a champion pool player, enjoyed NFL & NBA games and all games of chance, especially loved playing 21 & poker. Jim took great pride in passing along his infinite wisdom and the skills he honed, to his children and grandchildren. Jim was always the life of every party, even playing Santa Claus for his family & for The Telephone Pioneers functions. Jim was a family man, loved hosting get-togethers, cook outs, neighborhood block parties with friends & family; for special occasions or none at all, just for fun & fellowship. Jim took his entire family on many memorable vacations that provided memories that he cherished & reffected on until his last days. He valued the many, many friendships he built over the years as "friends to the end" type relationships. Jim's generosity knew no end. He would always find a way to extend a helping hand to friends and loved ones. Jim loved his wife Joy with never ending passion, taking care of her when she could not, selflessly keeping her at home to be by her side with the aid of 24/7 caregivers. Jim loved his entire family unconditionally. Jim is survived by his sister Wanda Moon of OKC, OK; his children Janet (Clark) Reinhardt of Garland, TX, Dennis (Maria) Parker of Stockton, CA, Brenda (Ken) Dixon of Edmond, OK, and Terri (Rick) Stanko of Whitney Point, NY; 9 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Anita Joy Richards, Jim's wife of 46 years, preceded him in death in 2012. Jim courageously battled pancreatic cancer since 2007; never giving up hope. He adapted a very positive attitude regarding his illness. He made sure he always had a smile on his face when he walked through the door of his home, (whether after work or the many doctor's appointments), so never to worry his wife Joy, while she was at home. Daddy gave his life to Christ in the fall of 2007. He put his life in Gods hands, had faith in eternal life and gracefully accepted Gods will. The Lord did not allow Jim to suffer as He led him peacefully into His kingdom to join His army of angels. Daddy had love in his heart, and was free of pain & suffering the night he passed. Most importantly, he was at peace with God. He told me he would meet me in Heaven one week before he passed & that was all I needed to hear to know he was right with our Lord & Savior. God answered many prayers during that very long week. May all the glory go to God. The staff @ Centennial Hospice made Jim's transition as his illness digressed, one of dignity and the utmost respect. The hours spent with him were filled with genuine love, care and concern for his daily quality of life. Each & every staff member involved in his direct care, developed a special bond with him. Our family holds a special place in our hearts for the care and love you provided; a special thanks to Chaplain Wayne for coming out to pray with our dad and family on such short notice, and for the comfort your visit provided to us all. Memorial Service Thursday, September 5th, 2013 - 10:00 AM - Resurrection Free Methodist Church 6000 N. Macarthur Blvd - Oklahoma City, OK - 73122 Immediately following the memorial service the family ask that you join them for a Celebration of Life Luncheon at Nancy's Lighthouse, 57th and May. Graveside Service A graveside service will follow the Luncheon at the Mathewson Cemetery on North Richland Road in Piedmont, OK. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James Richards please visit our Sympathy Store.