James Lee Gittlein, 72, of Decatur, Arkansas, passed away suddenly on January 30, 2022, at Northwest Medical Center in Bentonville, Arkansas, surrounded by his family.
Jim was born on June 6, 1949, in Zenith, Kansas, to Alexander and Agnes (Sheahan) Gittlein. Growing up, he attended Jumbo Elementary School, in Wichita County, Kansas, and graduated from Wichita County High School. He went on to attend Hutchinson Community College and served in the U.S. Army Reserve.
On December 22, 1973, he married Deandra Elder of Leoti, Kansas. The two settled there and Jim worked for many years as a farmer and rancher. He was a smart, witty, dependable, and capable man who knew no stranger as he enjoyed getting to know people and telling stories.
Jim was an avid hunter, golfer, and a classic car enthusiast. He was particularly fond of Ford Mustangs. But most importantly, Jim was a loving husband, wonderful father and a papa who loved his grandchildren dearly. Jim was also a man of strong Christian faith. While living in Leoti, Jim was a trustee and deacon of the First Baptist Church. After retiring and moving to Decatur, Arkansas, in 2010, Jim helped his son, Garrett, with his farming and ranching operation, and later became a member of the Victory Missionary Baptist Church in Gentry, Arkansas.
His surviving family members include his wife, Deandra of Decatur, Arkansas; two children, Lacy & Pete Williams of Wichita, Kansas, and Garrett & Amanda Gittlein of Bentonville, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Cohen Williams of Wichita, Kansas, and Mason, Colson, and Madison Gittlein of Bentonville, Arkansas; three siblings, Jerry & Joan Gittlein of Rye Beach, New Hampshire, Chris & Delmer Brady of Garden City, Kansas, and Alice & John Tom Bilberry of Branson, Missouri.
He is proceeded in death by his parents and two siblings.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at Victory Missionary Baptist Church in Gentry, Arkansas with Pastor Bill Sheffield officiating.
Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to Loving Choices in care of Wasson Funeral Home in Siloam Springs, Arkansas
