Shekethia Ann James affectionately known by many as "Keke," was born on July 22, 1963, and peacefully departed this life on August 19, 2026.

Keke was a warm-hearted woman whose love could be felt by everyone blessed to know her. She was a devoted mother, a loving sister, a cherished grandmother, and a woman who loved her family deeply. She had a heart for people and a way of making those around her feel loved and welcomed.

Shekethia was a residence of  the Hugo area, graduated High School, later moved to Oklahoma City and pursued a career as a certified cook. She later married, U.S. Army Veteran, Sylvester James. She was a devoted Christian and a faithful member of Hugo Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, in Hugo, OK. Her great faith shaped every part of her life; she truly loved going to church and singing, and her love for the Lord was reflected in the way she lived and loved others. She was a loving, warm-hearted, and outgoing woman who never met a stranger. She had a generous spirit and truly loved to give, always finding ways to make others feel cared for and welcomed. As the oldest of all her siblings, Shekethia carried herself with strength, grace and pride, serving as a beautiful example to those who looked up to her.

Shekethia found great joy in cooking, singing, and attending church. She loved the Lord and enjoyed being surrounded by her church family. Anyone who knew KeKe knew that she could make a meal that would bring everybody to the table-especially when she was cooking her good chicken. Her food, her laughter, her singing, and her loving spirit will forever remain special memories in the hearts of those who knew her.

Keke's greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love that will continue through her children, grandchildren, siblings, and loved ones. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, the love she gave and the memories she created will live on forever.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Sallie Ann Hall; her father, Roosevelt Bird; her husband, Sylvester James; and her brothers, Vincent Akins and Rope Hall.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving family, including Denoval Grant; Deandrea Grant; Devionn Grant; Kaiden Cochnauer and Amira; Devani; Keyeze Grant; Michael Hall; Lamonte Pearl; Gregory Grant; and Brian Bird, along with many other relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives she touched.

Keke's family will forever remember her as a woman with a warm heart, a loving spirit, a beautiful voice, and a gift for bringing people together. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she will be deeply missed.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing that her work here is done. Her love remains in the hearts of those she leaves behind, and her memory will continue to live on through every story, every song, every family gathering, and every meal made with love.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing that her work here is done. Her love remains in the hearts of those she leaves behind, and her memory will continue to live on through every story, every song, every family gathering, and every meal made with love.

"To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die."