James "Jim" Russell Campbell

A devoted son, husband, dad and papa, James Russell “Jim” Campbell was welcomed into heaven on August 6, 2025; he was 73.

Born on October 7, 1951 to Harold and Betty Jean (Ridings) Campbell in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Jim was raised with his sister, Lynnette. He graduated from C.E. Donart High School (Stillwater) in 1969 and earned his bachelor’s degree in business from Oklahoma State University. Jim married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Barnes, on June 19, 1971 at the First Baptist Church in Stillwater. They often joked that they met in the church nursery at that same location and had the rare joy of knowing each other nearly their entire lives. They were blessed to celebrate 53 years of marriage. 

As newlyweds, he and Bev loved working on their small farm. Later, his work turned into building, developing and selling real estate and, eventually, property management. Jim was great with numbers and taught their three sons what hard work looked like; he provided a wonderful life for his family. As a dad, he was involved with the boys’ many activities, including coaching some of their baseball teams. His patient demeanor and hands-on approach was a gift to his sons. 

When he was a young boy, Jim and his dad fell in love with a little town called Red River in New Mexico and built a small cabin for the family to vacation. His love of the mountains was passed on to his kids and grandkids. Over the years many fond memories were had with him riding dirt bikes and four wheelers on the trails, exploring in the Jeep and roasting hot dogs or s’mores. That tiny cabin expanded a lot over the years and housed many wonderful times with the family. 

Papa to 9 grandkids, Jim loved each of them dearly and could often be found watching one of their games or performances. Whether it was piling in the tractor and riding with him, fishing, watching John Wayne or Lassie movies, making popcorn in his machine, hopping in the side by side or enjoying Bev’s beef stew—his favorite—they thoroughly enjoyed time spent with their papa. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Betty Jean Campbell, his parents-in-law, Bob and Betty Barnes, and brother-in-law, Larry Barnes. He is survived by his wife, Beverly, and sons Bryce Campbell of Stillwater and his children Duke and Sophia; Scott (Camey) Campbell of Owasso and their children Callie, Cole, Cyah and Case; Todd (Autumn) Campbell of Stillwater and their children Peyton, Callen and Kendrie; his sister, Lynnette (David) Chapman of Norman, and nephews Josh (Hannah) Chapman , and their children Jentezen and Jax, and Taylor (Adrianne) Chapman and their children Abigail and Matthew, and his brother-in-law Rob Barnes and great-nieces Evyn & Parker, and Avery. 

Jim consistently emphasized the importance of a relationship with Jesus and faithfully supported numerous churches and ministries throughout his life. He accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior at age 9 when attended a service led by T.W. Wilson, a minister from Billy Graham ministries. He was known as a giver to those in need and was a father figure to many throughout his life. As his health declined quickly the past few weeks, he was humbled by how many visited him and shared about his impact on their lives. Never one to enjoy the spotlight, he was taken back at the love shown to him through the many prayers and calls. While his earthly legacy is great, we know his heavenly one is far greater. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 2PM at LifeChurch in Stillwater with Dr. David Chapman officiating. A time of visitation with family will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025 from 5PM to 6PM at Dighton-Marler Funeral Home, Stillwater. Jim’s funeral services have been entrusted to the care of Dighton-Marler Funeral Home of Stillwater. 

Pallbearers: Bryce Campbell, Scott Campbell, Todd Campbell, Cole Campbell, Peyton Campbell, Callen Campbell, Case Campbell., Duke Campbell, and Rob Barnes. Honorary Pallbearers: Charlie Rogers, Darrell Karraker, Danny Bertram, Brandon Bertram, Josh Chapman, Taylor Chapman, Dan Yankunas, Mike Burtrum, and Mike Wanless. 

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to K-Life of Stillwater 1307 N HUSBAND ST STILLWATER, OK 74075