James VanDeest

James VanDeest, 77, of Oxford died Tuesday, September 13, 2022.

James was born April 8, 1945, in Woodward, Okla. to parents Fred and Hazel (Wait) VanDeest. James married Dianna Hemphill on April 22, 1968, in Oxford.

Following graduation, James joined the Army and worked as a medic during the Vietnam War. James owned and operated VanDeest Construction, which he took much pride in. His most recent grandson, Declan, was the joy of his life.

Survivors include his wife Dianna, sons Dirk (Izabela) VanDeest, and Drake VanDeest, grandson Geordie (Rosie) VanDeest, great-grandchildren Aubree and Bentley Johnson, and Declan, and sister Joyce Kamm. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Freda Hibbs.

The VanDeest family invites friends to share memories from 2-5 P.M. Sunday, September 18, 2022, at the Oxford American Legion. Arrangements are in the care of the Oxford Funeral Service.