Memorial service for James Edward Boblett, Jr. set

Memorial service for James Edward Boblett, Jr., 75 of Panama is 12:30 p.m. Monday at Calvary Church in Panama with Reverend Brian Smith officiating. Burial will follow at the National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas at 2 p.m. under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home in Spiro

James Edward Boblett, Jr. gained his heavenly wings on Saturday in Panama. He was 75-years-old and born in Clarendon, Arkansas on Dec. 31, 1949, to James Boblett, Sr. and Anice Christine (Teenie) Clinton.

James was a laborer and retired from the Whirlpool Corporation in Fort Smith, Arkansas where he was a forklift driver for many years. James’s story began on the water where he spent his early childhood living on a houseboat on the White River near Clarendon, Arkansas. This unique lifestyle fostered a spirit of Independence that would guide him throughout his life. After his family relocated to Fillmore, California, James adapted to a new kind of life, but his early years on the river always remained a cherished part of his identity and earned him the nickname of “River Rat.”

From 1969 to 1971, James served his country as a member of the United States Army in Gun 3, Charlie Battery, 4th Battalion, 5th Field Artillery and was a decorated Vietnam Veteran. He carried the weight of his service with honor and resilience and later found peace and a sense of freedom on his motorcycle embracing the wind in his beard and making countless friendships along the way. James had a remarkable way of making you feel like an old friend; he never met a stranger. His generosity knew no bounds; he would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought. James loved his family fiercely and never hesitated to share a picture, video or story about them with you. James will be remembered by many for his kind and honest heart, his easy- going and fun-loving nature, his self-taught ability to play many different musical instruments and his beautiful singing voice.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James Boblett, Sr. and Anice “Teenie” Clinton; and his brother, Jerry Boblett. He was also preceded in death by his longtime coworker and best buddy and neighbor, Dale Killion. Their friendship was more like a kinship and you usually never saw one without the other.

James is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Phyllis Boblett, of the home; his daughter Lisa (Richard) Townsend of Coweta; son Jerry (Lori) Boblett of Shady Point and son Dennis (fiancé Melissa) Boblett of Irvine, California; nine grandchildren Christopher, Bethany, Kayleigh, Kennedy, Jarred, Courtney, Mackenzie, Augustus and Lydia; 11 great-grandchildren Evelyn, Madyson, Kylie, Logan, Lorelei, Carter, Archer, Cooper, Julia, Cayde, and Grant; his three brothers Frank, Jimmy and Danny; his two sisters Dellia and Patsy; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who felt like family.

James’s wife and children would like to thank the nurses and nurses’ aides from Heart of Hospice in Poteau for the excellent care provided to Dad during his final moments on earth. We would also like to extend a very special “thank you” to Randall Foster for all his help transporting Dad back and forth to many doctors’ appointments and hospital visits; your kindness has meant the world to us. And finally, to the numerous family and friends who called and messaged Dad everyday checking on him; for bringing him food from his favorite restaurants; and for providing him, and us, with your thoughts and prayers.

You may leave an online message at www.MalloryMartinFuneralHomeSpiro.com.