James Lee Rooker

James Lee Rooker, 67, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away on December 15, 2024.

James, fondly known as Jimmy, was born to James (Jim) H. Rooker and Patricia Ann Rooker on February 12, 1957, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Jimmy was the oldest of three children and took pride in being the big brother of Teresa Rhame and Barbara Winton. Growing up, he attended Putnam City West High School, where he participated in sports and was particularly good at wrestling. He went to Anderson College in Indiana to receive his bachelor's degree in business. After graduating, he returned home and decided to follow his father's footsteps, working for 7-Eleven. He started out fixing equipment in the stores and eventually worked his way up to being a supervisor. Jimmy spent 40 years at 7-Eleven, where he brightened his employees' days and made them feel like family before he retired in 2019. Although he loved the company and the work he did, Jimmy's favorite part of his work was spreading joy to his employees, making lifelong friends, and volunteering at Muscular Dystrophy events.

Jimmy was a truly kind and gentle soul. He leaves behind an inspirational legacy. He had a vibrant personality that was larger than life. His laugh and smile were contagious, and he never hesitated to throw in a joke, no matter the situation. He loved everyone he met, and he wished the best for them while only briefly knowing them. He loved to talk, but he also knew when to listen when someone needed it the most. He was a bright light and a comfort to many people.

After retirement, Jimmy filled his time with church and volunteer work. He enjoyed volunteering at Manna Pantry, church events, and he took his role as church "super security" very seriously. He enjoyed his small groups, but he loved spending time at Sunday school and doing puzzles with the kids. The only things he loved more than church were playing games with family and friends, going on adventures with Patti, making his grandchildren laugh, and his OU Sooners. His children and grandchildren were his heart. He was so proud of his family. He would often tell people how much he loved his wife Patti and how she completed him. He loved all things Christmas and somehow convinced Patti to let him collect over 300 Santas! All who knew Jimmy would agree that they were better for knowing him and that he was surrounded by joy.

Jimmy's loving spirit is carried on by his doting wife, Patti; his children: Ari and Clint Taylor, Spencer James Rooker, and Jennifer Kirby; grandchildren: Braydon and Sophia Hurst, Hudson James Rooker, and Natalie and Nathan Taylor. Preceding him in peace were his parents, James H. Rooker and Patricia Rooker.

To honor Jimmy's memory, a service will be held at Together We Church in Yukon, Oklahoma, on Monday, December 23, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Together We Kid's Ministry or sending flowers to Yanda and Sons Funeral Home in Yukon, Oklahoma. If you plan on attending, please honor Jimmy by wearing something Christmas-themed, OU-themed, or anything that reminds you of him.