James "Bill" William Stovall

James "Bill" William Stovall, born on January 10, 1941, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away on September 13, 2025, in Tulsa, at the age of 84. He lived a life characterized by love, dedication, and a deep commitment to his family and community.

Bill's journey through life began in Tulsa, where he would later embark on a notable military career. He served honorably in the United States Air Force as a Morse Code Specialist with commendable duties stationed in Japan and Maine. His military service shaped his character and instilled in him values of resilience and commitment. He was later the proud owner of Stovall's Classics working as a chef, catering events for many years. 

On December 1, 1961, Bill married his beloved wife, Jody Cline, in Pryor, Oklahoma. Together, they nurtured a partnership that lasted an inspiring 62 years, exemplifying a true love that served as a foundation for their family. Their bond was evident in the warmth of their home and the joy they found in each other’s company.

Bill is survived by his wife, Jody Stovall, of the home, and was a devoted father to his children: Gena Maria Nelson and her husband Allen of Tulsa, Robert Allen Stovall and his wife Barbie of Japan, and Angela Renee Wheaton and her husband Tom of Golden, Colorado. He was especially proud of his grandchildren, including Alex Bradshaw and his wife Harley of Tulsa, Sawyer Allen Nelson of Dallas, Texas, Max Bradshaw and his wife Dehra of Tulsa, James, Estella, and Jesse Stovall of California, Emmanesta Stovall of Hawaii, and William Wheaton and Maria Wheaton of Golden, Colorado. The joy of grandparenthood was further fulfilled by the arrival of great-grandchildren Wesley Bradshaw, Bryce Bradshaw, Sadie Conn, Oscar Conn, and Stella Stovall Hess, each of whom brought immense happiness to Bill's life.

An avid outdoorsman, Bill found joy in fishing and family activities. His unwavering support was evident as he attended every sporting event and actively participated in cooking classes at his grandchildren’s school. His influence and involvement left a lasting impact on all the young lives he touched, as he remained connected with many of the youth he mentored for decades.

Bill was a committed member of Pleasant View Baptist Church, where he passionately worked with the youth of the community. His love for music transcended generations; he introduced his children to a wide range of genres, from the timeless melodies of Elvis to the energetic sounds of Alice Cooper.

A summer highlight for Bill was his annual vacation to the beach, providing his family with cherished memories. He possessed a remarkable ability to connect with others and generously shared his love and wisdom with everyone around him.

He leaves behind a rich legacy of love, dedication, and a profound impact on the lives of his family and community. His memory will be celebrated and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bill is preceded in death by his mother, Ann Delight Thomas Whiteley, and grandmother, Martha Ann Whiteley whose memory remains a cherished part of his legacy.

Funeral services for Bill will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Pleasant View Baptist Church with Pastor Andy Pilant officiating. A private family burial will take place where he will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Pryor. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Shipman's Funeral Home. To leave a personal message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.