James Alvin Pulliam

James A. Pulliam, a longtime resident of Dewar, passed away Monday, December 19, 2011 in Henryetta, Oklahoma, at the age of 87 years, 10 months and 7 days. He was born February 12, 1924 in Valley View, Texas to C. C. and Thelma (Smith) Pulliam. He lived most of his life in Dewar, Oklahoma, graduating from Dewar School in May of 1943. James entered the Army Medical Corp in July that same year. He served his country during WWII in New Guinea, the Philippines, and Japan as a Medic, Scrub Nurse, and Assistant Surgeon in the 11th Portable Surgical Hospital, attending the wounded on the front lines. He returned home from the war in February of 1946 with many medals and an honorable discharge. He married his high school sweetheart, Guandina Pippin shortly on June 3 that year and they were married over 65 years and were blessed with three children; two sons and a daughter. He worked at Eagle Pitcher as the First-Aid Director from 1946 to 1966. He then became the Dewar Postmaster until 1990. He was instrumental in getting a new post office built in Dewar in 1988. He was a faithful member and trustee of the Dewar United Pentecostal Church, serving 50 years as Secretary-Treasurer, and taught Sunday School class for over 40 years. He put God first in his life, serving the Lord to the best of his ability. Survivors include: His wife of 65 years, Guandina Pulliam, of the home; Sons; Larry Pulliam and wife, Carol of Springer, OK; Robert Pulliam and wife Twana of Prairieville, LA; Daughter, Debby Brice and husband, Skip of Dewar; One brother, Jim Pulliam of Dewar; One brother-in-law, Cal Pippin and wife Stella of Checotah; One sister-in-law, Anne Pulliam, of Henryetta; 7 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding James in death are his parents; C. C. & Thelma Pulliam, one brother Richard Pulliam, one sister-in-law, Linda Pulliam, and one niece, Louise Pulliam. Pallbearers will be Dee Taber, Mike Deckard, Wiley Whisman, Jr. Bobby Roper, Craig Churchill, and Terry Morris. Honorary pallbearers will be Ralph Thompson, Bill Williams, Billy Jack Spurlock, Deroy Matthews, and Alan Churchill. Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 pm., Wednesday, December 21, 2011, at the Dewar United Pentecostal Church with Rev. Matthew Martin and Rev. Gregg Joki officiating. Interment will follow at New Sonora Cemetery on Arbeka Road in rural Henryetta under the direction of the Integrity Funeral Service.