James "JB" Bryant King Jr.

JB was born on December 30, 1931, in Meeker, Oklahoma, to James B. King, Sr. and Sylvia (Fox) King. He was baptized on September 16, 1945. To some, JB was a businessman, entrepreneur, and inventor. To many, he was simply Coach. To his family, he was the one they could always count on. He led by example, set high standards, and inspired those around him to be their best. Being a husband, dad, and granddad was the role he treasured most.

JB graduated from Capitol Hill High School in Oklahoma City in 1950, where he played both basketball and baseball. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as an Administrative Specialist, attaining the rank of Airman First Class in the 507th Tactical Control Group before receiving an honorable discharge in December 1953. While serving, he continued to play both baseball and basketball for his military unit.

After his military service, JB went to work for H.J. Jeffries Truck Line, where he also played for the Truckers commercial amateur baseball team. He later served as Transportation Manager for CMI before pursuing his entrepreneurial spirit and opening his own used car business. For nearly 40 years, JB owned and operated J.B. King Auto Sales. At one point, he successfully managed three car lots simultaneously, building a successful business through hard work, integrity, and a handshake people trusted.

On February 14, 1970, he married the love of his life, Mary Stanford. Their marriage of more than 56 years was built on commitment, deep love, and a shared dedication to their family.

JB was a devoted OU fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Sooners. As a football season ticket holder for more than 50 years, he enjoyed countless OU-Texas weekends and proudly witnessed the Sooners' national championship victory in Miami, Florida, in 2000. Few moments made him prouder than watching both his daughter and son graduate from the University of Oklahoma.

He coached many Little League baseball and softball teams, earning the title of "Coach". Whether it was a baseball game, dance or piano recital, school program, or special event involving his family, JB was there. One of his greatest joys in later years was traveling the country to watch his son first play baseball and later build a career in Major League Baseball as a strength and conditioning coach.

Summers were often spent at Lake Texoma, where one too many tangled ski ropes inspired JB and his brother-in-law, Don Harris, to invent the Automatic Ski Reel. At home, backyard pool parties became a summer tradition, while Fourth of July festivities at Eldon Lyon Park brought together family and friends year after year.

JB was a longtime member of St. Mark's Methodist Church in Bethany. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason and remained an active Mason for 60 years.

JB was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, J.W. King; and his nephews, Ray King and John King.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Mary King; his daughter, Kathryn and husband Brian Funk; his son, Bryan and wife Kimberly King; his grandchildren, Kamryn, Kingsley, and Kendall Funk, and Kayden and Karter King; his sister-in-law, Donna Maib and husband Wes; his brother-in-law, Paul Stanford and wife Christina; and many extended family members and dear friends.

The family invites you to celebrate J.B.'s life on Friday, July 31, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark's Methodist Church in Bethany with inurnment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.