JAMES HERNDON

June 23, 1949 - Sept. 16, 2015 OKLAHOMA CITY James, 66, went to be with the Lord on September 16, 2015. The son of James Edgar and Peggy (Tenney) Herndon, James was born June 23, 1949, in Charleston, WV. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On July 2, 1971, after returning from the military, James married his true love, Patricia Elaine Wilson, and together, shared more than 44 years of marriage and raising a family. James retired after 34 years of dedicated service from Cameron Tools, where he worked as a master machinist. James enjoyed working with his hands inside and out, doing various woodworking and science projects, and also swimming with his grandsons. He also enjoyed spending time at the lake playing and working with his in-laws, Leo and Lucille Wilson, and all his extended family. James most enjoyed being with his family. A loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, James will be deeply missed. Preceded in death by his parents, he leaves cherished memories with his loving wife of 44 years, Patty Herndon, of the home; daughter, Melissa DeWitt & husband Scott; sister, Darlene Stevens; three grandchildren, Lance, Brenden, and Andrew James; and a host of other loving family, friends and co-workers. No viewing or visitation. A Memorial Service to honor his life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, September 26, 2015, at the South Lakes Chapel. The family suggests donations be be made to A Smile for a Child Foundation in honor of his grandchildren, Brenden and Andrew DeWitt; or a donation to the Oklahoma Blood Bank in honor of James Herndon. Friends may leave their condolences at vondelsmithmortuary.com vondelsmithmortuary.com