Arthur Clayton "Clay" James

With sorrowful yet grateful hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved brother and uncle, Arthur Clayton James, fondly known as Clay. Clay departed this life on November 27, 2024, at 7:55 p.m. in Tulsa, Oklahoma, after suffering a massive stroke. He was 57 years and 25 days old. Born on November 5, 1967, in Pryor, Oklahoma, Clay was the son of Arthur James and Joan (Wilson) James. He spent his childhood in the Chouteau area, attending Chouteau-Mazie Public Schools, and lived a life marked by kindness, service, and an indomitable spirit. Known as "Uncle Clay" to most of his family, or "Stormy" to others, he made an impression wherever he went. Clay worked for many years mowing lawns and serving as a janitor for Chouteau Public Schools. He also took on various odd jobs, always willing to lend a hand. After the passing of their father, Clay and his mother moved to Locust Grove, where he became her dedicated "chauffeur". They moved to Salina, OK until his mother's passing, and he later lived with various family members before he moved in with his sister Judy, in Pryor, in 2022 where he lived until his passing. Family memories of Clay are full of joy and love. He delighted in being pushed around the yard, on a lawn mower frame, by his older siblings, and then pushing his two youngest sisters around. He loved playing with toy cars under the two big shade trees on the old homeplace, his siblings stopping what they were doing to join him, only to be scolded about running stop signs, and driving on sidewalks with their "car". He loved to collect Matchbox cars and delighted in sharing his treasures with each of his nephews and great nephews after they were born. His love for these simple pleasures exemplified his generous spirit. Despite life's challenges, Clay's intelligence and big heart shone through. A childhood accident caused mental health struggles, but those who knew him well recognized a man who loved helping others and would give selflessly to anyone in need. Clay was an active member of the Amateur Radio Club and an amateur storm chaser, after having attended classes led by Travis Meyer and Channel Six News, he was always eager to alert his loved ones when severe weather was near them. He was very artistic; he loved to build model cars and make elaborate ice cream stick houses. His drawings were almost lifelike, and he had a talent for refurbishing things, and loved making something work when it wouldn't. Faith was a cornerstone of Clay's life. He worshipped at James Ministries Church of Freedom in Salina, where he volunteered at the mission, folding clothes and distributing food with joy and humility. Clay also surprised many with his beautiful singing voice, performing specials during church services, singing solos or singing with his Mom. He later attended Word Fellowship Church in Chouteau with his late friend Zacary Jackson. Clay's generosity extended beyond his church. When he could he regularly contributed to the First Christian Presbyterian Church's community meals program, delivering sacks of potatoes or onions to support the ministry where his sister worked whenever he could. His most selfless act came in 2017 when he became an organ donor, a decision inspired by his sister's need for a kidney transplant. Even in death, Clay's love for God and others lives on through the lives of those he helped and in those who will live because of his selfless act.

 Clay is survived by his siblings: Patricia and Ted Johnson of Durant, OK; Charlene and Ray Newman of Colcord, OK; Melvin James of Chouteau, OK; Perry James of Murphy, OK; Sherry and Tommy Stephens of Pryor, OK; Diana and Ron Barfield of Adair, OK; Judy Ann Flint of Pryor, OK; Sheila Rapien of Pryor, OK; and Crystal James and Aaron Cummings of Pryor, OK. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great – nieces, great - nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Joan James; his sister and brother-in-law, Wanda and Dane Maples; sister-in-law, Mira James; his grandparents, Harve and Annie James and Henry and Lucy Wilson; and step-grandmother Edath Wilson. Clay's life was simple, but his impact was profound. His unwavering faith in God, boundless generosity, and joyful heart remind us to love God and love our neighbors. As we grieve his passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life. "And this is eternal life: that people know you, the only true God, and that they know Jesus Christ, the One you sent." (John 17:3, NCV) Clay's family and friends will forever cherish his memory and thank God for the gift of his life. Rest in peace, dear Clay. You are now in the arms of the Lord.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 14, 2024, in the First Christian Presbyterian Church in Pryor with Reverend Darlene Martinez officiating. To leave his family a message, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman’s Funeral & Cremation Service.