James Ballenger

James Clarence Ballenger passed away on May 2, 2025, at the age of 89 in Yale, Oklahoma.

Jim was born on March 16, 1936, in the rural community of Dennis, Oklahoma, the son of Denver Clarence and Mary Ann (Hodge) Ballenger. Jim moved with his family to Jennings, Oklahoma, at a young age, where he began and completed his education, graduating from Jennings High School. Shortly after high school, Jim was united in marriage to Diane L. Beeler on July 3, 1954, in Yale, Oklahoma. For several years, Jim continued working with his father farming and working cattle. He later began working as a welder helper on the pipeline. Jim then started working for Brady Trucking for many years until Jim retired.

Jim loved going hunting, fishing, and woodworking. Jim also enjoyed cooking, eating a good meal, and visiting and celebrating with his family and friends. Trips to Branson were special times for Jim, attending many of the shows. Because of Jim's many years on the road as a truck driver, he was very knowledgeable about the highways and how they connect. Jim has been described as a very loving, kind, and hard-working man.

Survivors are his wife, Diane, of the home; three children, Clayton Ballenger and his wife Valerie of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Lisa Ballenger of the home, Cara Smith of Yale, Oklahoma; sister Irene Daniel of Jennings, Oklahoma; five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sisters, Viola Cox and Ava Kizer.

Private services were held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Jennings Cemetery, with Pastor Randall Newby officiating. Chapman-Black Funeral Home will handle the arrangements. Friends and family may visit an online guest book and memorial page for James at www.chapman-black.com.