Jimmie Roland Seely

Jimmie Roland Seely, age 92, passed away on June 30, 2025, in Pryor, Oklahoma. Born on October 19, 1932, in Winganon, Oklahoma, Jimmie lived a life marked by dedication and service, both to his country and his family.

His early education was notable; from 5th to 7th grade, he never missed a day of school, only missing once in the 8th grade. In a testament to his determination, his teachers even provided him with new boots after he arrived barefoot, having walked over a mile through the snow to attend class. This resilience and commitment characterized much of his life.

Jimmie served honorably in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1952. His dedication led him to specialize in aircraft, eventually serving in higher headquarters. Among his most distinguished roles was serving as an advisory liaison (MAAG) where he had the privilege of working closely with the Chinese Air Force and the U.S. Embassy, frequently traveling across the Far East. Over his military career, he accomplished many things, including receiving pilot wings in 1957 and being honored with 21 medals, including a bronze star with oak leaf clusters. He retired as a Master Sergeant, one of the first three individuals to attain the rank of E-9 for non-commissioned officers, making 12 trips to various regions including Japan, Korea, Okinawa, Philippines, Thailand, Guam, Vietnam, and Taiwan, and was even privileged to dine with the President of Taiwan, Chang Kai-Shek, and his wife.

Jimmie’s personal life was equally fulfilling. He married Juanita Buster on October 30, 1954, in Claremore, Oklahoma, and their union lasted an extraordinary 70 years and 8 months. They created a loving family together, including a son, Charles Eugene Seely of Salina, OK, and a daughter, Loretta Jo Seely of Elgin, TX. He is also survived by his sister, Betty McLeary of Muskogee, OK, and his two grandchildren, Chad and Darrin Seely.

An avid fisherman, Jimmie enjoyed leisure time at Lake Hudson in Salina. His experiences in the military provided him with a wealth of stories about his adventures traveling the world, often recalling how he and his family journeyed through various countries during his service. One notable memory was of the plane displayed at the Salina VFW, a reminder of his travels and time spent working on the aircraft.

Jimmie is preceded in death by his parents, George and Jessie Seely, along with his brothers George, Bob, and Fred Seely, sisters Norma Jo West, Irene Martin, Glendola Barnes, and Edna Hartness, and his granddaughter, Autumn Seely.

Funeral services for Jimmie will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 7, 2025, at Shipman's Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Graham Memorial Cemetery. To leave a personal message, please visit his guest book at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.