Paoli - James Paul "Jim" Ferris of Paoli passed away April 10, 2023 in Ardmore, Oklahoma at the age of 80 years.

James was born August 1, 1942 in O'Neill, Nebraska to Bernard Ferris and Lillian Nightingale Ferris. He was raised in Pueblo, Colorado.

Jim began his tour first of duty in 1960 in the United States Marine Corps and received the Good Conduct Medal during his first tour. During his second enlistment, he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant, Good Conduct w/2#, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/3#, Meritorious Mast, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry Frame and Palm, and Navy Commendation Medal.

In his third enlistment, he earned the Good Conduct Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and Meritorious Mast. He retired in 1975 as a staff sergeant.

After his military retirement, he remained quite busy. He was married to Rena DeArman in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma on December 2, 1978, whom he met while attaining a degree in history.

He served on the city council, enjoyed collecting coins from the U.S. and the various countries he served in during his service tours. Jim also enjoyed 'quiet times' on his back porch with his special dog, Pepper, whom he dearly loved.

One of his greatest joys was traveling and telling stories about his travels and childhood in Colorado. He also enjoyed several summers as a campground host at local national parks.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Lillian Ferris, and three brothers: Gary Ferris, Ronnie Ferris, and Gene Ferris.

Jim is survived by his wife, Rena Ferris; sons: Mark Frick, Paul Ferris, Mark Ferris, and Brandon Bettes; a grandson, Brett Ferris; a granddaughter, Amber Ferris; and sisters, Susan Cortez and Betty Stephens, both of Colorado.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 1 p.m. at Stufflebean-Coffey Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Pastor Ken Murray.

Interment was at Paoli Cemetery under the direction of Stufflebean-Coffey Funeral Home. We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the family's guestbook at www.stufflebeanfuneralhome.com.