Branstetter

James Merle Branstetter

James Merle Branstetter, 79, of Barnsdall, Oklahoma died on May 24, 2019. He was born on March 30, 1940 to William Actlus Branstetter and Lois Merl (Cummins) Branstetter.

He graduated from Barnsdall High School 1958. After, he decided to go to Oklahoma Military Academy in Claremore, Oklahoma and graduated with an associate degree in May of 1960. He got a job at Phillips Petroleum in Bartlesville and was there for twenty-seven years. After retirement from Phillips including a stent in Saudi Arabia for five years. He had also worked as a security guard for Dick Conner Detention Center and retired after 5 years.

On July 16, 1960 he married Nancy Kay Rhodes. They had one daughter, Gina Kay Branstetter, one son, Scott and wife Reagen Branstetter and granddaughter Taylor Renee Branstetter of whom he was so very proud of.

On May 16, 1992 he married Nelda Turner and welcomed her children into his life; one stepdaughter Kelly Steinley and her son Joey and daughter Samantha, and stepson Rick Turner. He & Nelda worked many years delivering food from Mary Martha’s to people in need in Barnsdall, Oklahoma. They also loved their cats. He was especially attached to a cat named Blaze. He enjoyed his time with family and friends.

James is survived by his wife of the home, all his children, sisters, Trudy and husband Jack Bagg, Sandra Kay and husband Jerry Pierce. Grandchildren, Joey, Samantha, Taylor and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Delois Ann Branstetter, Willi May Cox, and Jennie Lee Brown.

A Memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked for any donations to be sent to The Journey Home in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.