James Rich, of Bokchito, passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on June 22, 1942, in Bryan County, Oklahoma, James was a lifelong resident who cherished the land and its people. He breathed his last surrounded by the love of his family in his hometown of Bokchito, Oklahoma.
James's life was rich with the love of his family, and he is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Rich of Bokchito; his sons, Bryne Rich and wife Kara, also of Bokchito, and Barry Rich and wife Tina of McKinney, Texas. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Brittany McGuinness, Kaylee Hartline, Mikaela Francis, Cody Rich, Levi Rich, Kaycee Rich, Hannah Rich, and Madison Rich, as well as his great-grandchildren, Winter Rose McGuinness, Sky Hartline, Snow Monroe, Wolf Hartline, and Avery Francis. He is also survived by his sister, Edwina Armor of Durant, Oklahoma.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Therrel Rich and Nova (Baber) Carmack, his son, Michael James Rich, and his brother-in-law, Bill Wayne Armor.
A graduate of the local high school, James exemplified the values of hard work and dedication throughout his life. He married Margaret Burgess on October 20, 1962, in Bokchito where together they built a life of love for family and community. He served his community as a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service for 37 years, delivering mail along Route 2 and Route 1 in Bokchito.
Outside of his work with the USPS, James was a dedicated farmer and rancher. He took great pride in raising cattle and tending to his land, a testament to his love for the outdoors and the agricultural heritage of Oklahoma. His nomination for All American Farmer further highlighted James's commitment to agriculture and his excellence in farming practices, earning him respect and admiration from his peers.
James's interests extended beyond his work. He was an avid domino player, a hobby that brought him countless hours of joy and fellowship. In 1974, he was crowned the World Champion Domino Player. Hunting and fishing were also passions of his, allowing him to immerse himself in the natural beauty of his home state.
The family will receive friends at his Family Hour from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. His funeral service will be held on Monday, April 15, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bokchito Church of Christ with Johnny Frank officiating. James will be laid to rest in Bokchito Cemetery following his funeral service.
Those serving as pallbearers are Jeff Penz, Bill Penz, Brian Akins, Davin Grace Sullivan, AJ McCann, Sean Brown, and Danny Johnson. Honorary pallbearers are Terry Condor, Brent Burns, Dennis Rodman, Lynn Wood, and Eddie Jeffcoat.
Services are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 North 5th Street, Durant, Oklahoma 74701. www.holmescoffeymurray.com