James Brackton Upton, Jr., 69, passed from this life on March 24, 2024 in Tulsa.

Known to friends and family as Jim or Jimmy, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Jim was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma to James Brackton Upton, Sr. and Sarah Louise Upton (Andy). He graduated from Bishop Kelley High School in 1973. That same year he married Elizabeth Harrington, and the two built a life together in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Jim's life was one of devotion and service from the very start. After high school, Jim dedicated himself to the family business, working at Upton Supermarket in Oakhurst. He managed the store until 1989 before making a seamless transition to the food service industry. For 28 years, Jim excelled as a sales representative, building connections and making lasting friendships along the way. Jim ended his career at Tankersley Food Service. Jim was respected for his hard work and integrity.

As a father, Jim was hands-on, cheering on his children in everything they did. He was an integral part of his children's lives and loved being with them. As they became adults, that bond remained, and he was proud to be an important part of their lives. His favorite role was as Papaw Jimmy, as he was known by his grandchildren. Jim deeply loved his grandchildren, and they adored him as much as he did them.

Jim never met a stranger. He genuinely cared about people and ran into friends wherever he went. Jim lived life with a twinkle in his eye, making people laugh with his great sense of humor. His curiosity led him to have many interests.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, barbecuing and coaching Little League baseball. His favorite hobby was fishing. He spent many hours making his own legendary lures. Some people may be lucky enough to have cast some of the spinnerbaits he made.

Jim's yard was the envy of neighbors. He loved spending time maintaining his impeccable lawn and growing vegetables in his backyard. Jim rarely sat still. He loved being busy, and could often be found helping others. He was vigilant, keeping an eye out on his neighborhood and was protective of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Jim is survived by his wife Elizabeth (Liz) Upton; daughter Candy Padley and husband Chris of Jenks; son Josh Upton of Sand Springs; grandchildren Caryss, Brackton and Chase; and siblings Steve Upton, Terry (Tracy) Upton, Paul Upton, Matt (Mary Ann) Upton, Mark Upton and Lucy Upton. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Bobby and Teresa.

Jim will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery, joining his parents and grandparents.

A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on April 5, 2024 at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church. The church has special meaning for Jim. It is where he attended elementary school and where he was married.