Joe Dean James
In Memory of Joe James
Joe Dean James, 67, passed away in Wilburton, Oklahoma surrounded by the love of his family. Joe was born on April 30, 1959, to Johnny and Norma James. On July 10, 1979, he married the love of his life, Paula James, and together they built a life centered around family, hard work, and love.
Joe was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished every moment spent with his family. He especially loved hunting and fishing with his sons and, after retirement, spent much of his time proudly following his grandchildren to ball fields and basketball courts.
Joe worked for Dillard and Sons Construction for 16 years before beginning a 22-year career with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. He retired in 2021. Joe was known as a hardworking man who believed in the value of an honest day’s work, a lesson he passed down to his sons.
He is survived by his wife, Paula James, of the home; his sons, Kyle Moody and wife Crystal of Kiowa, Jesse James and Jessica of Wilburton, and Isaac James and wife Jackie of LeFlore. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Bryce James and wife Murron, Makinsie Pebley, Gage James, Hunter James, Reese James, and Joleigh James.
Joe is also survived by his brothers, Johnny Frank James and wife Judy of Hartshorne, and Jacky Wilkett of Wilburton; his sisters, Betty Sartor and husband Junior of Poteau, Linda Cohen of Hartshorne, and Stacie James of Poteau; his mother-in-law, Mary Laudermilk of Hartshorne; and several special nieces and nephews including Justin and Catrina Wilkett and their daughter Jayce, Johnny and Christie Wilkett, and Jackson and Cassidy Wilkett.
Joe also shared a special friendship with Brian and Lori Ryles of Red Oak.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny and Norma James; his fathers-in-law, Buddy Laudermilk and Paul Moody; his niece, Kim Wilkett; his great-nephew, Dillon Wilkett, and nephew Naconna Bennett.
Joe will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering work ethic, deep love for his family, and the countless memories made in the outdoors with the people he loved most. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Memorial services for Joe will be held at the Choctaw Nation Community Center in Wilburton on May 23, 2026 at 10:00 am.