Ernest Ray James, age 83, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away October 29, 2015.

Ernest was born on May 31, 1932 to Ernest Victor and Gertrude Ophelia (Webb) James in Tulsa, OK.

He graduated Will Rogers High School in May 1950 and married his high school sweetheart Joan Goodwin on September 8, 1950. They were married for 65 years. His favorite school subject was shop class and he worked alongside his father at his father's business, Tulsa Engineering & Construction Company.

He was inducted into the U.S. Army on January 26, 1953 and served his country for two years during the Korean War in the 16th Armed Engineer Battalion. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and was selected to be President Dwight D. Eisenhower's Color Guard during his presidential visit to Ft. Hood, TX.

Ernest was employed with McDonnell Douglas as a Plant Manager of Publications and Engineering. He also served on the Board of Directors for McDonnell Douglas Federal Credit Union. He retired from McDonnell Douglas after 35 years of service in 1989. His retirement didn't last long. That same year he accepted a position with Foretravel Motorhomes as a Service Manager and then Tour Director for the Motorcade Club until 2007.

He was a 50 year member of Delta Masonic Lodge 425 and a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Member. He was also a member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

Ernest lived his life to the fullest. He enjoyed scuba diving, boating, waterskiing, motor cycles, and loved autocross, road racing, and building cars. He was an active member of Sports Car Club of America. He had his private pilot's license, enjoyed square dancing, traveling, and owned a printing company.

Ernest is survived by his wife, Joan; and son, Larry; daughter-in-law, Elisa; grandchildren Richard, Russell, and Heather; Larry's step-children Courtney, Amanda, and Gene; and son, Kenneth; grandson Jason and daughter, Renee; son-in-law David; granddaughter Courtney and grandson Cash and 8 great-grandchildren.

Ernest will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Visitation will be 2:00-4:00 P.M., Sunday, November 1, 2015 at Moore's Southlawn, 9350 E. 51st, Tulsa, OK. Military graveside services will be held Monday, November 2, 2015 at Memorial Park Cemetery following 2:00 P.M. service at Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 3612 E. 91st St. S., Tulsa, OK. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233