James Hershel Beam

Graveside services for James Hershel Beam, 68, of Ratliff City, are scheduled for 2:00 P.M., Friday, December 13, 2024, at Loco Cemetery with Dan Stewart officiating. Services are under the direction and care of Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Ratliff City.

James was born January 30, 1956, at Duncan, to the late Mr. Bobby Joe Beam and Mrs. Bernice Elsie (Null) Beam. He departed this life December 5, 2024 at his home in Ratliff City.

From his early days in North Richland Hills, Texas, where he attended North Richland Hills Elementary School, to his teenage years spent in Euless, TX, James fostered a deep love for the great outdoors. He even worked for a horse trainer during his youth, cementing his affection for horses and helping cultivate a bond with nature that would last a lifetime. His experiences in the countryside kindled a particular enthusiasm for hunting, specifically coon hunting, which became one of his greatest joys. His fondness for animals extended to dogs, all of whom held a special place in his heart.  In 1975, James's family, including his parents Bob and Bernice, along with his siblings Keith, Anita, and Lisa, relocated to Loco, Oklahoma. This move marked a new chapter in his life, filled with cherished memories, spending the summers at his Grandma Nell's home, a place that brought him immense comfort and joy.  As he transitioned into young adulthood, James worked as a roughneck on pulling units, an experience that provided him with the knowledge to build his own pulling unit. Furthering his career in the oil industry, he became a contract pumper, using his expertise to purchase several producing oil wells—a testament to his industrious spirit and commitment to his work. Later in his professional journey, James found fulfillment as a contract welder, where he continued to showcase his skills. Throughout his varied career, James remained dedicated to spending quality time with his “boys,” Walter and Danny, from a previous marriage. 

Preceding him in death are his parents, Bobby Joe and Bernice; stepson, Randall Crowder; great niece, Avery Bivins.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Crowder of the home; step-sons, Danny Stewart, Jr. and wife Monique of Fox and Walter Stewart and wife Candice of Healdton; step-daughter, Michelle Donaho and husband Pake of Sulphur; brother, Keith Beam and wife Lynne of Lake Texoma; sisters, Anita Watson of Ardmore and Lisa Walters and husband Rick of Rush Springs; grandchildren, John Marshall Farrell, Kaden Farrell, John Stewart, Ethan Stewart, Haden Stewart, Trinity Reynolds, Kaden Reynolds, and Walter Howard Stewart, Jr.; twin great grandsons on the way; numerous nieces, nephews, other family, and many friends.

Pallbearers will be John Marshall Farrell, Pake Donaho, R.J. Peters, Brent Smith, Billy Watson, and Johnny Rue.

Honorary bearers are Keith Beam, John Stewart, Ethan Stewart, Darrell Barrick, Danny Stewart Jr., and Walter Stewart.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 P.M., Thursday evening, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Ratliff City.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.