James Lee Colbert, age 71, died Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Heart of Hospice in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on Friday, December 11, 1953, to Sampson Lee Colbert and Christine Irma Thomas Colbert Ludlow in Antlers, Oklahoma.
James was a devoted family man and a hardworking soul who lived life with quiet strength and love. He dedicated 30 years to Alfs in Mena, Arkansas as a skilled forklift driver, earning the respect of his coworkers through his reliability and work ethic. James found his greatest joy in his family—cheering on his children and grandchildren from the sidelines, never missing a game. A proud OU fan, he passionately followed Sooner football and softball. In retirement, James embraced woodworking and tackled his honey-do list with care and pride. He enjoyed listening to both Pow Wow music and classic rock and was a faithful member of Nanhi Chito Presbyterian Church. James leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and quiet perseverance.
James is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Darrell Colbert and Jimmie Barcus.
James is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Jane Colbert of Watson, Oklahoma; two sons and daughters-in-law, Dennis and Amy Colbert of Cove, Arkansas and Jeremey and Mary Sprow of Ohio; three daughters and sons in law, Samantha Ward of Watson, Oklahoma, Robin and DeWayne John of Watson, Oklahoma and Mary-Jane and Codi Lopez of Mena, Arkansas; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Garry Colbert of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and Nolan and Lisa Colbert of Little Elm, Texas; five sisters and brothers-in-law, Ruthie Bohanon of Smithville, Oklahoma, Rita and Bob Mayo of Mena, Arkansas, Marquita Kirby of Idabel, Oklahoma, Janis and Karl McKinney of Watson, Oklahoma and Audrey and Todd Kessler of Rio Rancho, New Mexico and Elois Barcus of Palmer, Texas; eleven grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
Obituary provided by Bowser Family Funeral Home.