James Neil Kindsfather was born on May 8, 1951, in Sayre, Oklahoma to Roy Lee and Frances Ada (Hess) Kindsfather. He passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at his home in Sayre, Oklahoma at the age of 75 years, 4 months, and 1 day.

James grew up in Delhi, Oklahoma where he attended school through the eighth grade. As a freshman, James began attending Erick High School where he met his wife, Donna. James and Donna were almost inseparable after graduating from Erick High School in 1969. They were married at the Erick Church of Christ on February 7, 1970, and attended all of their college years together. James worked various jobs while attending SWOSU where he graduated with his bachelor's degree in Education. He began teaching at Altus in 1973. His daughter, Jaimea was born in 1977. Then, in 1979, a son, Jarren, was born.

After completing his master's degree, James became the principal at Sayre Elementary in 1985 and then Erick High School in 1987. James continued his career in education until 2005 when he retired after 32 years of service.

Following his time in education, James built a second career in real estate, spending 16 years with United Country in Elk City. James truly enjoyed his work in residential and land properties, taking great pride in keeping abreast of the Western Oklahoma market.

James enjoyed being by Donna's side all of their fifty plus years, and was always there to support Jaimea and Jarren. He enjoyed watching their families grow and succeed. A large part of his life has been centered around dedication to the Church of Christ where he served as an elder for almost 20 years.

Preceding James in death was his wife Donna, his parents, Roy and Frances Kindsfather; his in-laws, Harvey Lee and Jo Ellen McClure; a very special aunt and uncle, Frank and Dorothy Nikkel; his brother, Donnie Kindsfather and sister-in-law, Judy Kindsfather.

James is survived by his daughter, Jaimea (Kindsfather) Vanderpoel, and son-in-law, Michael Vanderpoel of Frisco, TX;  son, Jarren Kindsfather, and a daughter-in-law, Mikie Kindsfather of Carrollton,TX. Five wonderful grandchildren: Kaiden Vanderpoel, Bryce Vanderpoel, Avery Vanderpoel, Jaxen Kindsfather, Macie Kindsfather. Brother, Dwane Kindsfather of Arnold, MO; sister-in-law, Glenda Kindsfather, Clinton, OK as well as very special friends and members of the church.

Funeral Saturday, September 19, 2:00 at the Sayre Church of Christ. Burial at Erick Cemetery.

The family asks for any memorial donations to go to their choice of a children's home or a family care center.