James William Van Sickle III

James William Van Sickle III

January 7, 1942 - September 5, 2023

James William Van Sickle III, a beloved companion, father, brother, and friend, passed away on September 5, 2023 in Tulsa, OK at the age of 81. He was born on January 7th, 1942, at Houston Texas Methodist Hospital to his parents, James William Van Sickle and Clara Lou Van Sickle, both of whom have preceded him in death.

 

James is survived by his best friend and beautiful love, S C Clifford, who affectionately referred to him as her Cowboy.

 

He is also survived by his son, James William Van Sickle IV, residing in Los Alamos, New Mexico, and his wife Lia. Jim also leaves behind his younger sister, Beverly Ann Watkins of Fort Worth, who shares his birthdate. Jim was also preceded in death by his two brothers Bob and Woodie McKeeson.

 

Jim grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where he attended school and spent his formative years. During high school, he worked as an ambulance driver for a local funeral home in Fort Worth, gaining unique experience that included helping embalm his first body at the age of 16.

 

In 1959, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and received an honorable discharge in 1963. His dedication to the medical field led him to inquire about becoming a Corpsman, to which the recruiter replied, "Son, we have the best medical corps there is." However, James soon discovered that the Marine Corps did not have Corpsmen or Chaplains, which were provided by the Navy.

 

Following his military service, he embarked on a career in law enforcement, serving as a deputy sheriff in Tarrant County, Fort Worth, Texas, for five years. After encountering a second shootout during his time as a deputy, he began exploring other career options.

 

In 1968, James transitioned to the broadcasting industry, starting as an account sales at KFJZ radio and becoming the General Sales Manager in 1978, marking the beginning of a successful and diverse career path. His journey eventually led him to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1982, where he assumed the role of Vice President & General Manager of KBEZ 92.9. He later sold the station in 1988 and founded Princess Publications, Inc., publishing Homes & Land, a real estate magazine and Chamber of Commerce magazines. This venture thrived for several years until he sold it in 2012.

 

James found immense satisfaction in his final career as a Realtor and often stated that it was one of the best professions he had ever pursued. His love for real estate was evident, and he embraced it with passion and dedication.

 

James William Van Sickle will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the love and joy he brought into the lives of those around him. His warm heart, sense of humor, and

 

unwavering dedication to his loved ones will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 

May he rest in peace, forever cherished in our hearts.