James Stephen LeGrange

James Stephen LeGrange, fondly known as "Big Jim" to his family and "Papa" to his cherished grandchildren, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 26, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 10, 1943, at St. Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City to William Timothy “Bill” LeGrange and Marilyn “Charlyne” (Carpenter) LeGrange.

From his earliest days, Jim's life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones. He attended Del Rancho Village Elementary School, Grant High School, and graduated from Harding High School. He enjoyed playing football and played French horn in the band. Jim was also a talented wrestler earning several awards and placing in state. He continued his education at Oklahoma State University and Central State University earning a bachelor's degree in coaching and biological sciences. He taught for a short while at Millwood High School as a wrestling coach and biology teacher.

His entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic were evident from a young age, as he held various jobs, including delivering newspapers, driving a taxicab, working as a plumber’s helper, and as a car salesman. Jim's professional accomplishments were impressive, as he built successful businesses including Edmond Motor Freight, Best Way Freight Lines, and Speedy Delivery. His keen business acumen and dedication to hard work were admired by all who knew him.

Jim met the love of his life, Connie Gale Miller, at the Wedgewood Pool, where he instantly knew he would be with her forever. After a 6-year courtship, they married on May 24, 1966, in Gainesville, TX. They made their home in Del City, Oklahoma City, and Yukon, before settling in Edmond in 1979. Throughout his life, Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, never missing a moment to support his children and grandchildren in their endeavors including sporting events and dance performances. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. Jim loved to cook and often hosted gatherings for friends and family, including many Fourth of July family gatherings.

Outside of work, Jim enjoyed riding motorcycles with friends each Saturday morning, playing with his dogs, as well as relaxing by watching a movie or TV show. He was known for his immense generosity, kindness, and larger-than-life personality, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

Jim will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Connie Gale LeGrange; his children: James “Jim” LeGrange, Jr. and wife, Ashley, Shannon LeGrange, and Stacey LeGrange; his grandchildren: Parker and Emerson LeGrange, Victoria Braeden Huddleston and husband, Tanner, Rhoman Bradshaw and fiancé, Jadon Hill, Laif Bradshaw, and Taitum Bradshaw; sisters: Linda Stockwell and husband, Richard, and Kathryn Church and husband, Paul; step-sisters: Glenda Mayfield, and Mary Rickey and husband, Bill; step-brother, Lee Griffee and wife, Donna; and a host of relatives and friends whose lives he touched with his warmth and generosity.

He is preceded in death by his father and step-mother, Bill and Lena "Popey" LeGrange; and mother, Charlyne LeGrange.

A funeral service celebrating Jim's life will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Friday, May 3, at 10 a.m., followed by interment at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation with family and friends will be held at the funeral home on Thursday from 4-8 p.m.

In honoring the life and legacy of James Stephen LeGrange, let us remember his boundless love, and enduring legacy of kindness. Though he may be gone from our sight, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Big Jim, knowing that your legacy of love will endure for generations to come.