James M. Pavillard was born in Alex, Oklahoma to Thomas E. and Lucy M. (Phillips) Pavillard. He had 2 brothers, Otis and Ralph, and 2 sisters, Maxine and Mildred. He married Mary Jean Peterman on March 22, 1940 in Lindsay, Oklahoma. James and Mary Jean moved to California in 1941 in search of a better job. Their three children, Glen, Sandra (Sue), and LuNell were born in California. The Pavillards lived in California from 1941 to 1952, when they returned to Oklahoma. James served his country proudly with two tours of duty in the US Army during which time he was a member of the boxing team at Fort Sill and participated in Golden Gloves and won several medals. James was a member of the Choctaw Road Baptist Church. He was formerly a long-time member of the Sunnylane Baptist Church in Del City where he served as a deacon. In the 1950’s, he played a large role in the construction of a new sanctuary up the road from Townsend Elementary School, the previous home of their services. He worked at W.H. Stewart Company for many years before an opportunity arose to work at Tinker AFB as a machinist. He retired from Tinker after 15 years. After Mary Jean and James retired, they spent half of their days at their home on Lake Eufaula, enjoying fishing, boating, and spending time with their family and friends. James was an avid sports fan, especially anything OU. He was a water skier and at the age of 62, learned how to snow ski. An avid golfer, he played until he was 89. All of his life, he exercised and kept in great shape. Those who ever had the pleasure of shaking his hand, knew of his strong grip which he never lost. James was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and wife Mary Jean of 61 years. He was also preceded in death by his son, Glen Pavillard and daughter, Sandra (Sue) Squires. He is survived by his daughter LuNell McCann, daughter-in-law, Lynn Pavillard, grandchildren, Tracy Pavillard (wife Tami), Riki Deans, Holly Rincon (husband Jake), and Jeff Grady (wife Kristi), six great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Arbor House in Midwest City, TenderCare Hospice, and special thanks to the caregivers with Infinity Home Heath for their dedicated loving care of James and family. As expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the church or charity of your choice. A closed casket visitation will be held Monday, November 5th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Bill Eisenhour Funeral Home 8805 NE 23rd St. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m.,Tuesday November 6th at Arlington Memory Gardens, 3400 N. Midwest Blvd.
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