James "Jim" Ward Vandiver

Jim Vandiver, a man of faith and dedication, left this world on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 79, with a legacy defined by devotion to his family, service to his country, and a heart filled with melodies of gospel music. He was born on September 17, 1945, in Gravette, Arkansas, to James Clyde Vandiver and Geraldine Sunshine (Holmes) Vandiver. A place where Jim grew up and graduated high school establishing his roots in a place, he forever held dear.

Jim fell in love with Judy Carol (Beaty) Vandiver, and they were married on March 11, 1968, in Hawaii. Together they shared a love story that lasted 56 years. Jim proudly served his nation in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1969, including a tour in Vietnam that exemplified his courage and patriotism. Following his military service, he polished his skills at the Spartan School of Aeronautics, before embarking on a career that witnessed three decades as a respected foreman at Crane Carrier Company.

A devout Christian, Jim's spiritual journey was deeply intertwined with his everyday life. He found solace and community at Lonestar Baptist Church, where he blended his love for the Lord with his passion for singing gospel music, a practice that brought comfort not only to him but to those fortunate to hear his rich baritone voice.

Jim's zest for life was matched by his adoration of the great outdoors, particularly riding horses and trail riding, which allowed him to connect with nature and the companions who shared these excursions. This fondness for adventure extended to travel with friends from church, enriching his life with new experiences and lasting memories.

Though known for his various hobbies and his working life's dedication, nothing surpassed the love he bore for his family. A guiding force and unwavering support, Jim was admired by his children, Chris Vandiver and wife Karen of Coweta, Mike Vandiver and wife Erica of Coweta, Bryan Vandiver of Broken Arrow, and Debbie Kloss and husband Robert of Queen Creek , AZ, and treasured by his 11 grandchildren, Brooke Cook and husband Nicholas, Hunter Vandiver, Nicholas Vandiver and wife Samantha, Samuel Vandiver and wife Hannah, Matthew Kloss, Robert Kloss, Tyler Vandiver and wife Kalee, Bailey Riggs and wife Karlee, Tucker Vandiver and wife Jaleana, Simon Riggs, and Zachary Kloss. He was a cherished patriarch to his nine great-grandchildren.

Jim's brotherly bonds were evident in his relationships with his siblings, Clarence and wife Becky of Gentry, AR, Alan Vandiver of Centerton, AR, and Carol Floyd of Kansas, Oklahoma, as well as with his brother-in-law, Dale Beaty, and sister-in-law Diane Beaty and wife Linda, and sister-in-law Vivian Vandiver. Through him, a tight-knit family found its center, and his passing leaves a noticeable void. His remarkable presence will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, and the countless friends who became an extension of his family.

Predeceased by his loving wife, Judy Carol (Beaty) Vandiver in February of 2024, his brothers, Bobby and Don Vandiver, his parents, his brother-in-law, Bob Floyd, his sister-in-law, Pat Beaty, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William “Dub” and Ruble Beaty, and his sister-in-law, Janet Vandiver. Jim leaves behind a remarkable tapestry of love and memories. Those who knew and loved Jim are comforted by the knowledge that his was a life extraordinarily well-lived, marked by the values of faith, family, and friendship that he cherished until his very last breath.

Services to honor Jim will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 10:00 am at the Lone Star Baptist Church in Coweta, OK officiated by Rev. Sam Davis. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, starting at 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm with the family present from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Jim and his wife Judy will be laid to rest together at Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Fort Gibson, OK.

Family and friends are invited to share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of James Ward Vandiver entrusted his care and services to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.