James Keith Firestone

Ratliff City - Funeral services for Mr. James "Keith" Firestone, age 84, of Ratliff City, are scheduled for 10:00 A.M. on Monday, September 16, 2024, at Ratliff City Baptist Church, with Rev. Glynn Baker officiating. Interment will follow at Alma Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care and direction Alexander Gray Velma Chapel.

Keith was born on August 20, 1940, in Milo, Oklahoma, to the late Mr. Albin L. Firestone, Sr. and Mrs. Oma May (Albertson) Firestone. He passed away on September 9, 2024, in Lindsay, Oklahoma.

Keith's career began in the oilfield sector after serving in the Army, where he operated hot oilers and tank trucks for many years. He married the late Mrs. Lela Ann (Strudivant) Firestone on May 8, 1960, in Frederick, Oklahoma. After a brief period in Frederick, they returned to their roots in Ratliff City, where they raised their two sons, Allen and Tom. Through his hard work in oil production, Keith achieved success that allowed him and Lela to travel extensively across the United States, including Alaska. They were active members of the Christian Motorcycle Association and later enjoyed adventures in a motorhome.

An industrious individual, Keith had a passion for working on projects in his shop. He demonstrated remarkable skills, building everything from drilling rigs and tank trucks to classic cars and trailers. His hobbies included fishing, flying model airplanes and ultra-light planes, and enjoying off-road vehicles and camping at the lake. Keith was well-known for his warm personality and welcoming nature, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His commitment to his faith was evident in his involvement at Ratliff Baptist Church, where he contributed to numerous projects.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife Lela Ann Firestone, sister Daphne Bowden, and brothers Albin L. "Monk" Firestone, Jr. and Felbert Wilson "Sonny" Firestone.

He is survived by his sons, Allen Firestone and wife Cathy of Velma and Tom Firestone and wife Tricia of Velma; grandchildren, Brian Firestone and wife Jessica, Kyle Firestone and wife Tiffany, Ashley Hoggard and husband Jimmy, Chad Firestone and wife Sandy, Amy Dunn and husband Eddie, and Dustin Firestone and wife Anna; along with 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Humphrey and husband Charles of Aledo, Texas; sister-in-law, Joyce Firestone of Velma; and a host of other family and friends.

Pallbearers for the service will include Ronnie Burton, Gilbert Sturdivant, Kyle Firestone, Brian Firestone, Eddie Dunn, and Dustin Firestone. 

Honorary bearers are Vance Epley, Jimmy Hoggard, Chad Firestone, Dennis Smith, Drew Smith, and David Gayanich.

Visitation will be held on Sunday evening from 2-4 P.M. at Alexander Gray Velma Chapel.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.