James Harold French

James Harold French, 85, of Custer City, Oklahoma, peacefully passed away on September 10, 2025, at the Clinton Veteran's Center.

A visitation be held from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday, September 15, 2025, at Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home, located at 2500 Modelle Ave., Clinton, OK 73601.

The funeral service will take place at 10:00 am, Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Arapaho First Baptist Church, 601 Main St., Arapaho, OK 73620, with Don Lacy officiating. Burial will follow at the Cherryvale Cemetery on Highway 51 near Canton, OK.

James was born on August 28, 1940, in Longview, Texas, to Lindley and Evelyn (Cook) French. He graduated from Norris City High School in Illinois in 1958 and continued his education at Southern Illinois University.

In 1959, James enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving until 1963. During his time stationed in Oceanside, California, he met Barbara Jean Dunn, and they were married on August 3, 1963, in San Gabriel, California, after his honorable discharge.

James began his career with Texas Eastern Transmission Co. in Ohio for three years before joining Mobil Oil Corporation, where he worked as an Electrician and Technician for 28 years. In 1977, he dedicated his life to the Lord and became an active member of the Trinity Baptist Church in Hugoton, Kansas, where he served as a Deacon, teacher, youth leader, Bible study leader, and contributed to the AWANA children’s program.

In 1999, James retired from Mobil Oil and moved to Custer City, Oklahoma. He became a valued member of the Arapaho First Baptist Church and was actively involved with the Custer City Senior Citizens. A passionate fisherman and camper, he enjoyed playing dominos, cards, and pitching washers, cherishing the precious moments spent with family. His beloved Boston Terrier, Puddin, was always by his side.

James is survived by his brothers, Lee French and wife, Vicki, Ray French and wife, Cui Luo Li; sister, LaWanda Chain and husband, Neal; nieces, Michelle Chain, Lisa Chain, Latia Murray, Gina Miller and husband, Richard, Kara Cavitt, and husband Randall; nephew Tyrel French and wife, Heather; great nieces, Daisy Bryson, Kayla Moore and husband, Arron, Hope Rennels and husband, Connor, and Josey Cavitt; great nephews, Max Murray, Jake Cavitt, T.J. & Grayson French; great great niece, Olivia Rennels; great great nephews, Alex Moore, Jaxon Moore and Raylon Rennels, along with special friend, Minta Powers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Buster and Evelyn French; his wife, Barbara; grandparents; siblings; niece Melissa; sister-in-law Sue; and great-nephew Arron Lee Murray.

Contributions may be made to the Arapaho First Baptist Church, 601 Main St., Arapaho, OK 73620 or the Clinton Veteran’s Center, 1701 S. 4th St., Clinton, OK 73601.

James Harold French will be remembered for his devotion to his faith, family, and community, leaving behind a legacy of love and service.