Jamie DeFrang | obituary | Macalester News Capital

Jimmy Joe DeFrange, beloved father, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2023, in Cribbs, Oklahoma.
The Rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at the Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Bill Anderson officiating.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Cribbs celebrated by Fr. Kingsley George Obelono. Jimmy Joe will be buried in Mount Calvary Cemetery in McAlester immediately following the service under the direction of Chaney-Harkins Funeral Home.
Born on March 9, 1957, in McAlester, Oklahoma, Jimmy Joe was known for his friendly demeanor and generous spirit.
Jimmy Joe was preceded in death by his parents: George and Dolores DeFrange; his grandparents: James Joseph and Lena DeFrang, Jimmy and Regina Carr; his brother, Ralph Defrange; his nephew, Brandon DeFrange; and his niece, Fallon Turner. He is survived by his three children: Joseph DeFrang of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Carmela Maas and her husband Stephen of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Christopher DeFrang of Cripps, Oklahoma. He was the proud grandfather of Giovanni Mas. He is also survived by his sister, Jolene DeFrange of Quinlan and her husband, Donald of McAllister, Oklahoma, his brother, Ricky DeFrange and his wife, Peggy of Cripps, and the mother of his children, Angela. (Henry) Scott, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Jim and Joyce Henry of McAlester, and his many nieces, nephews, cousins ​​and friends.
Silent guardian and humble friend, Betty Weber. Her continued care and dedication to Jimmy Joe during his illness demonstrated an amazing spirit of generosity and love that we will cherish forever.
Jimmy Joe was a proud graduate of Macalester High School, Class of 1975. He carried his hard work spirit and dedication into his career as co-owner of Demac Lumber Company in Cribbs.
His faith was an important part of his life. Jimmy Joe was a lifelong member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, a member of the Mount Carmel Men’s Club and the Knights of Columbus. He was instrumental in the care and renovation of statues at St. Joseph Cemetery in North Macalester, demonstrating his dedication to his faith and community.
Jimmy Joe had a passion for gardening, especially growing tomatoes and peppers. He incorporated this vegetable into his love of cooking, especially spaghetti sauce. His house was always surrounded by beautiful blooming flowers and shrubs. Jimmy also enjoyed fishing.
Jimmy Joe was known for his friendly and generous nature. His generosity extended beyond his family and friends, touching the lives of everyone he met.
As Maya Angelou’s famous quote goes: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This sentiment perfectly sums up Jimmy Joe’s life. He made everyone feel loved, appreciated and important, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
Jimmy Joe DeFrange will be deeply missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him. His memory will live on in the beautiful gardens he planted, the businesses he helped build, and the love he shared with his family and community. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, generosity and faith, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

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