James Franklin Loyd, age 76, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at The Journey Home in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.
James was born on September 5, 1949, in Vivian, Oklahoma, to Clensie Loyd and Alta (Devore) Loyd. In July of 1982, James met the love of his life, Bekki Brannan-Davis, and they were married on October 8, 1982. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.
James worked most of his life as a heavy equipment operator, running a dozer for Earth Movers, P&K Coal, and Bemis Construction. He later worked in the coal mines for Phoenix Coal before joining Brakefield Equipment, where he retired in 2019. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and pride in honest work.
A devoted family man, James was the father of four children from a previous marriage and lovingly stepped in to raise the three children Bekki brought into the marriage as his own. He led by example, offering steady guidance, unconditional love, and support to his family.
James was active in RESET Church (formerly Living Word Family Church), where he faithfully served as an usher and door greeter, welcoming everyone with warmth and kindness. Upon retirement, he became a vital part of the Loaves & Fishes Food Bank, continuing a life of service by helping care for others in his community.
A man of strong faith, James trusted in the Lord throughout his life and leaned on God’s grace in every season. His Christian beliefs shaped his character and gave him peace in the promise of eternal life.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Clensie and Alta (Devore) Loyd; his brother, Kenneth Loyd; his sister, Francis Coe; and his nephews, Ronnie and Tommy Moffett.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bekki Loyd, of the home; son Jody Yarberry and wife Kayla of Dewar, Oklahoma; son Jeffrey Yarberry and wife Stephanie; twin daughters Jill Yarberry and Julie Yarberry, all of Missouri; son Phillip Davis and wife Sonia of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; son Robert Davis and wife Shanda of Copan, Oklahoma; daughter Andrea Davis of Nowata, Oklahoma; 15 grandchildren who loved him dearly and affectionately called him Pa; 12 great-grandchildren, with three more on the way; a host of nieces and nephews; and his lifelong best friend, Bill Russell of Dewar, Oklahoma.
James is now resting in the presence of his Savior, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. His legacy of faith, service, hard work, and deep love for family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A memorial service to celebrate James’s life will be held; the date and time are still pending.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Journey Home, 900 NE Washington Blvd, Bartlesville, Oklahoma 74006, or to RESET Church, 225 S. Ash, Nowata, Oklahoma 74048.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
114 West Cherokee, Nowata, OK 74048

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