James Reece "Jim" Conner

James "Jim" Reece Conner, 66, of Elmore City, Oklahoma, passed at his home on December 24, 2025. Born on November 26, 1959, to Jesse Reece Conner and Maydell (Thornton) Conner, Jim lived a life defined by quiet strength, deep loyalty, and a heart that gave without limits. A proud graduate of Pernell High School, Class of 1978, Jim was valedictorian and a varsity football player-achievements that reflected both his intellect and dedication. After high school, he became a farmer and later held various roles in the oilfield industry. He eventually worked for Express as a safety man, and later supported his friend Steven McConnell through various odd jobs-always lending a hand wherever it was needed. From a young age, Jim was involved in livestock and cattle shows, often alongside his brother-grooming animals while his brother led them in the ring. His dedication earned him recognition, including a volunteer award in Bray. He also had a lifelong love of animals, especially hound dogs. Jim's love for family was the center of his world. He was a constant presence in the lives of his nieces, nephews, and especially his beloved Maggie who he helped raise from a toddler. Whether it was livestock shows, cheer camps, or basketball games-Jim was there, always making memories. He let Maggie drive the truck before she probably should have, and he took her everywhere he went, even to his favorite spots like Charleston's and Smokin' Joe's. He tried his hand at sweet potato pie once-it did not turn out quite right, but his effort and laughter made it memorable. Jim officially retired in July 2025 due to health reasons, but his purpose never wavered. He lived his life by example-showing others how to be present, how to give freely, and how to appreciate life's simple joys. Though he never chased after material things (except maybe the latest phone), he was rich in love, friendship, and integrity. He was quiet by nature, but those who knew him knew the depth of his compassion. He never missed a single event for his nieces, nephews, or Maggie. He showed up for everyone-without fanfare, without needing recognition-just with love. Jim's legacy is one of selflessness, humility, and devotion. He leaves behind a family and community who will miss him deeply but remember him with warmth and gratitude. In honor of his memory, the family encourages everyone to "enjoy the little things" and take a loved one out for a vanilla twist with a blue M&M like he did with his Maggie. He is survived by his brother, Patrick Conner and wife Gloria of Foster, Oklahoma; Sister, Susan Swanson and husband Steve of Garland, Texas; his Daughter, Maggie Meadows and husband Dakota of Elmore City, Oklahoma; Grandson, Callen Meadows; Nieces and Nephews, Jarod Moss and wife Denise of Wylie, Texas, Conner Swanson of Sachse, Texas, Dante' Becerra of Shawnee, Oklahoma, Gynna Becerra of Whitehouse, Texas, RJ Becerra and wife Connor of Velma, Oklahoma, Reece Conner of Foster, Oklahoma; Great Nieces and Nephews, Katlynn and Franky Tomez, Beighlor, Logan, and Lillian Becerra; Special Friends, Leesa Foster, Kristen Winn; Mother to Maggie, Tammy Thompson; and a host of other family and countless friends who became family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Reece Conner and Maydell (Thornton) Conner; Stepmother, Billie Conner; and Stepbrother, Mike Land.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on January 3, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at the First Baptist Church in Elmore City, Oklahoma with Brother Rusty Abrams officiating. Inurnment is pending for a later day at Foster Cemetery in Foster, Oklahoma with Jean Patterson officiating.