James Ray Lawhead, 75 of Baxter Springs, died Saturday, April 22, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family. Born January 28, 1948 in Claremore, Okla., James was the son of James Harvey Lawhead and Ruby (Dewees) Lawhead. They preceded him in death. James was also preceded in death by a brother, Jerry Lawhead; sisters, Janice Turner and Emily Buchannon.
James and Frances Pulley were united in marriage April 28, 1984 at Miami, Okla.
James worked as an over the road truck driver for 28 years, retiring in 2015. He also enjoyed doing leather work. James’s hobbies included boating, leather works, being outdoors and was known to many people as a handy man and would help with any project someone had. James was a proud member of the Cherokee Nation. James was baptized at the First Baptist Church, of Picher, Okla. in 1983.
James is survived by his wife Frances Lawhead of the home; two sons, James R. Lawhead of Wichita and Michael D. Lawhead (wife Wendy) of Claremore, Okla.; sisters, Debbie Seargant of Joplin, Mo., Mary Purscelley of Grove, Okla., Dorothy Bennett of Colcord, Okla. and Marlene Boyd of Lawton, Okla. Seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren along with nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law also survive.
Funeral services were held., Wednesday, April 26 at Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel. Pastor’s Gary Rhodes and Claude Craig officiated. Burial followed in the Lowell Cemetery.. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.