James Pratt Gant

A celebration of the life of James P. Gant will be held Saturday, October 5, 11am at Memorial Park in Edmond, Ok. Mr. Gant passed away after a lengthy illness on September 30. He lived a rich, full life filled with many friends and loved ones.

James Gant was born and raised in Commerce, Texas. He was the 2nd child of Edith Pratt and Isaac B. Gant. As a child he learned the importance of family and the value of hard work. An eternal optimist, he was always willing to take a risk or try something new. At age 18 he left college to take a short term job in the Pearl Harbor Shipyards and found himself in the middle of the December 7 attack. He and his coworkers labored around the clock for 3 days straight in an effort to save sailors in the fiery waters or trapped in wreckage. He continued in the shipyards for 2 years until he was released to return home. Once home he promptly enlisted in the Marines just in time for the invasion of Iwo Jima. He spent 6 weeks on that island. The horrific sights and sounds of the war would always be with him, but so would the lasting friendships of the Marines with whom he fought.

After his return stateside he met the love of his life-Edith Fletcher. They married and he brought her back to Texas to begin their life together-a marriage lasting 66 years. He began his career in the cotton business. He loved nothing more than driving around the countryside, checking out the crops, talking to farmers, and visiting the gins. As years went by he found himself traveling the world in the international cotton business. He loved his business and was respected by all for his integrity and knowledge.

James Gant is survived by his loving wife, Edith, daughters Karen and husband Tom Vollbrecht and Mary Ann and her husband Bill Woodward. He is also survived by his sister Elizabeth Fortner. He delighted in his 5 grandchildren and their spouses: James, John and Melissa Vollbrecht, Taylor Woodward, Jennifer and Jeff Runyun, Lindsay and Brad Dunn. Great grandchildren are Lily Vollbrecht, Theodore and Katherine Vollbrecht, Remington and London Runyun, and Scarlett and Chandler Dunn.

James Gant’s life was a life well lived. He survived 3 cancers and a loss in vision in later life yet he never lost interest in people and the world around him. He touched the lives of many with his generosity and friendship. His indomitable spirit is an example to all. May he now rest in peace.