James Claborn Denson

Velma - Funeral Services for Mr. James Claborn Denson, 92 of Duncan are scheduled for 2:00 P.M., Thursday, January 11, 2024, at New Velma Cemetery with Cody Copeland officiating.  Services are under the care and direction of Alexander Gray Velma Chapel.  

James was born on September 22, 1931, to Isaac James and Dolly Evelyn (Carpenter) Denson in Maud, Oklahoma. James went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 5, 2024.

James was raised during several of his formative years with his Uncle Dugan and Aunt Celie Walgren and was later adopted by his Uncle Jessie and Aunt Dorothy Denson of Velma.  James enjoyed playing basketball at Hargo High and was reported in the Star-o-logy section of the Shawnee Newspaper. During his college years at Seminole Junior College, James enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He served in the 36/31st Flight Line Maintenance Squadron as an Aviation Mechanic. He received Decorations of the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

After his military service, James married Virginia Rose Whitten and was blessed with a daughter, Susan Lori. James was employed with Getty Oil Company in Velma. On September 14, 1972, James married Virginia “Deanie” Morris and recently celebrated 51 years of marriage. This union was blessed with daughter Sammie Lea Denson of Duncan and son Jimmy Wayne Denson of Bakersfield, California.

James’ career in the oil and gas industry spanned across several states within multiple positions. He was known as “Honest Jim” and “Brother-n-Law.” He documented his daily tasks on yellow legal notebooks and would laugh saying, “Don’t believe those computers are here to stay.” At age 70, James completed truck driving school and obtained his CDL license. He drove cross-country for two years for Swift and did local haul jobs thereafter. All those who knew James could vouch for his avid love of Jesus Christ, his wife Deanie, family, OU football, and game roosters.

James is survived by his wife Deanie of the home, daughter Sammie Denson of Duncan and son Jimmy Denson of Bakersfield, California. Grandchildren: Ben Copeland, Cody and wife Amanda Copeland of Duncan, Kelli Sue and husband Levi Brallier of Broken Arrow and Ava Lori Denson of Bakersfield, California. Six Great-Grandchildren: Kaylea, Garrison, Bentlee, Elias, Knox, and Kaleb. Plus, a host of nieces and nephews, who were dear to his heart.

James was preceded in death by his parents Isaac James and Dolly Evelyn (Carpenter) Denson, siblings: sister Doris Denson, sister Linda and husband Clois Anderson, and sister Betty June Scott. Daughter, Susan Lori Denson Shirley and several precious nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Ben Copeland, Cody Copeland, Johnathan Caldwell, Nic Anderson, Balee McAuley, and Zac Cable.

Honorary pallbearers are Chuck Anderson, John Gilby, Jack Bartling, Jim Palmer, Harvey Garrett, Leslie Presgrove, Wayne Weeaks, Dennis Dickerson, and Bill Morris.

Visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 6-8 P.M. at Alexander Gray Velma Chapel. 

Online condolences may be made to www.alexandergrayfh.com.