James R. Hammons was born on January 19, 1960, in Bakersfield, California, the son of Bill Hammons and Ethel (Peters) Hammons. He was preceded in death by his mother, beloved son, Brian James Hammons and brother, Tim Hammons.

James was a graduate of Neosho High School and played football for the Neosho Wildcats. He lived for over 50 years in California and worked in the oilfield, he later bought land in Hugo and  moved his family to Oklahoma. James was a long-haired hippy who loved classic rock and roll and cracking jokes. He was a family man who put his family first and especially loved his grandkids. James enjoyed being in the country and loved life and lived it to the fullest. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

James is survived by his father, Bill Hammons; daughter Cristin Nichole Hammons of Hugo, OK; daughter in law, Jessica Hammons Harvey; grandchildren, Courtney Hammons, Cameron Hammons, Zachary Hammons, Jayden Hammons, and Little John Harvey; brothers, Kenny Hammons, Ceven Hammons, and Billy Hammons.