James Earl Turnbull of Jay, OK has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
The chapters of his life were many; these are some of them.
James spent his working life as ['the Highway Dept', 'the water dept'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
To raise a child is to give the world a future. James did this with care.
James Earl Turnbull of Jay, OK, passed from this life on April 29, 2026 at the age of 93. He was born on September 21, 1932 to George Turnbull and Millie Coates Turnbull in Boggy Depot, OK.
James joined the Oklahoma National Guard. He served with the 45th infantry division during the Korea conflict as a machine gunner on a half track on the front lines. Sept 1, 1950 – July 17, 1952.
Later on in life he moved to Dodge City, KS and worked for the Highway Dept. also he worked for the water dept.
James worked for Petterson's in Decatur, driving a feed truck. He also worked on a farm at Turkey Ridge. James retired from Petterson's when he was 62.
He was known for enjoying time with his friends and he was an exceptional pool player. He enjoyed buying and selling cars. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Loved being outside working, planting his garden, mowing his yard, cutting brush, building fence, and taking care of his chickens. James liked to stay busy.
His grandchildren remember him from his abilities to tell detailed and interesting stories from the past. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.
James is preceded in death by his parents George and Millie Turnbull; two brothers and three sisters.
James is survived by his three children, Robert Turnbull and Bobbie of Jay, OK, Jamee Page and husband Leon of Eucha, OK, and Marsha Fields and husband Larry of Jay, OK; 2 brothers, Richard Mason and wife Leatta of Brownsburg, IN and Larry Mason and wife Dina of Eglin, SC; Two sisters, Faye Brockman of Red Bluff, CA and Dottie McMaine of Lugoff, SC; 4 grandsons, Shawn Turnbull and Mollie of Colcord, OK, Roger Page of Caldwell, ID, Nathan Page of Eucha, OK, BoShane Turnbull and wife Cheyenne of Colcord, OK; 3 granddaughters, Sabra Esparza and husband Carlos of Carlin, NV, Christy Doyle and husband Larry of Papua New Guinea, and Tricia Fields of Jay, OK; 13 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; Nephews, Nieces and his longtime companion Margie Morden of Jay, OK; extended family and friends.
James's Celebration of Life Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, 2:00pm, May 6, 2026 at Mount Hermon Cemetery, 42040 S 670 Rd, Jay, OK 74346.
James's service will conclude at the graveside.
James's burial will be at Mount Hermon Cemetery, Jay, OK.
Arrangements are entrusted to Lawson's Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 W. Gray St., Jay, OK 74346 with Shaunda J. Lawson, 3rd Generation Owner/Funeral Director and Staff.
