James Samuel Whitehead

Graveside service for James Samuel Whitehead, 78, of Apache, Oklahoma will be held at 2:00pm Friday, January 30, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery in Apache, Oklahoma. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 10:00am until 8:00pm at the Fletcher Funeral Home. Family will be present from 6:00pm to 8:00pm to greet friends and guests.

James Samuel passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the Lawton VA care center at the age of 78. James was born in Modesto, California to Joe and (Mary) Beatrice Whitehead (Brett). Although, anyone that knew him, knew he hated to admit that he was born in California. He graduated from Broken Bow High School and was drafted and served in Vietnam. After returning from service, he worked in the private sector and later re-enlisted in the ARMY and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer II. James later served his country again as a civilian employee where he worked primarily for Defense Finance and Accounting Service.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores (Dee Ann) Whitehead (Chesney) and his eldest daughter Shannon Freeman (Whitehead), along with his mother, father, two sisters and his favorite friends Rowdy, Flash and Boo Dog.

He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Whitehead, her wife Michele and their children Nick, Josh, and Pheona, grandson Tyler Freeman, his wife Sabrina and their children Carson and Arlo, sister Jimmie Louise Shields, brother Thomas Edward Whitehead and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends.

Those that knew Sam, Sammy, or James depending on if it was the baitshop, the nutrition center, or somewhere else, knew that he loved OU sports (when they were winning) cheap beer, and running his mouth. He would complain about your cooking while cleaning his plate completely. He was crotchety, sensitive, and strongly opinionated. His hard exterior could run some off, but others saw his softer center at times. James was an enigma and he was consistent with who he was. Losing his wife and eldest daughter was extremely difficult for him and he now has a chance to be with them again in whatever form that energy has taken. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the local humane society/animal shelter or raise a glass and buy a round for others.