Dennis Lee "D.J." James, 82, departed this life on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Mobley-Groesbeck Funeral Service of Sand Springs.

A graveside service with military honors presented by the U.S. Air Force will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Tuesday from 12–8 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5–7 p.m.

D.J. was born July 14, 1943, in Charleston, Arkansas, to Edgar James and Arebella Estelle (Ritchie) James. At just 17, he proudly joined the U.S. Air Force, beginning a lifetime defined by hard work, service, and resilience. Over the years, he explored a variety of occupations—working for a time as a beekeeper—but most of his career was spent in roofing and later in trucking. He drove a truck for 35 years, a job he truly enjoyed.

Even after retirement, D.J. was constantly on the move. He rarely sat still and was known for arriving everywhere at least an hour and a half early. He married the love of his life, Wilma "Sue" Kimbrell, on July 28, 1978, in Bartlesville, and together they made their home in Sand Springs.

D.J. had a deep affection for his dogs, Cricket and Zoie, who he lovingly called "his girls." He seldom ventured far, wanting to remain close to his beloved companions. He also had a special love for catfish and tried it anywhere he could—though Billy Ray's stood as his favorite.

He was known for his humor, quick wit, and easy charm. Though private by nature and not one for big crowds, he could strike up a conversation with anyone.

He enjoyed sweets, westerns, sitting outside, relaxing, and taking life as it came. He loved trips to Sam's and coffee at any hour of the day. During the last 10 months of his life, he lived with his son and daughter-in-law, Wayne and Vonda, and cherished making coffee each morning for the three of them to share. D.J. also took great pride in his Jeep and treasured spending time with his brothers and sisters. He spoke with his brother, Claudie Wayne, every single day.

D.J. is survived by his children: Denise William of Salina, Kansas, Wayne James and wife, Vonda, of Mannford, Kathy Baker and husband, Ken, of Tulsa, Vicky Winters and husband, Bill, of Tulsa, and Ron Simmons and wife, Melissa, of Parker, Colorado.

He is also survived by his siblings: Jim Chancellor, Evie May, Claudie Wayne James, Laura Sorey, and Shirley Linam; his beloved grandchildren: Michael William, David William, Danielle William, Brittney Workman, Tyler Arter, Breeanna James, McKayla Wilson, Coalton James, Nicole Perez, Preston Baker, Jennifer Nowak, Jason Baker, Nikki Jo Baker, Cody Blackburn, Kyle Winters, Jenna Quinter, Travis Przeklasa, Blake Simmons, Michael Simmons, Matthew Simmons, and Charlotte Simmons; and numerous great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue James; his son, Dennis Scott James; his parents; and his siblings, Billie Jean Baker and Charles Edgar James.

D.J. will be remembered for his devotion to family, his unforgettable humor, his steady presence, and the simple joys he loved so dearly. His family takes comfort in knowing he has been reunited with Sue and those who passed before him. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.