James Joseph Sweeney

James Joseph "JJ" Sweeney, a resident of Checotah, passed away July 10, 2013 in Muskogee, OK at the age of 83. He was born Monday, July 07, 1930 in Chicago, IL to Joseph Sweeney & Margaret Curtin. James joined the U.S. Navy right out of high school at age 17. He saw combat in both the Korean War and the Viet Nam War. He retired after 22 years of faithful service as a Chief Petty Officer. He was in charge of the flight deck on the USS Kitty Hawk Aircraft Carrier, one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. He was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Viet Nam Service Medal and Bronze Star, and the U.S. Air Force Outstanding Award Medal. While stationed in southern California towards the end of his military career, James met Oklahoma native Beatrice McGuire. They visited Oklahoma after they were married and decided to make their home here in 1971. Initially, they lived in Lenna and then later moved to Eufaula, before finally settling in Checotah. His beloved wife Bea passed away in 2001. The last years of his life, James was supported and loved by Paula Giles. Paula's extended family became "J.J.'s" family and her children and grandchildren brought him great joy. "J.J." loved to travel and enjoyed his trips to see his son Michael and family in California, his step-daughter Tommie and husband Wayne in Tennessee, step-daughters Juanita and Janie and families in Texas, sisters Jean McGrath and Peggy Westcot and families in Chicago. But he always looked forward to getting back to his adopted home state of Oklahoma. James was a friend to everyone he met and a great role model for us all. His zest for life, and generosity and kind words made this world a better place. We will always be loved and missed. James was preceded in death by his mother and father, his wife, Beatrice McGuire Sweeney, his sister, Peggy Westcott, and step-daughter, Janie Welch. He is survived by his son, Michael Sweeney and wife Patty of Sutter Creek, CA; a step-daughter, Tommie Debrowski and husband Wayne of Tennessee; a step-daughter, Juanita Whaley of Texas; a sister, Jean McGrath and husband Bill of Chicago, IL; and a special companion, Paula Giles of Checotah; as well as other extended family and a host of military friends. A memorial service for James will be held on Tuesday, July l6, 2013 at 11:00am in the Chapel at Integrity Funeral Service, 410 E. Trudgeon in Henryetta.