James "Jimmy" Talley

James “Jimmy” Talley died on April 3^rd, 2024 due to complications from a long-term illness.   

He was a dedicated father and husband.  Jimmy spent much of his life as a field mechanic, both on helicopters and gas compressors.  He loved working on small equipment and did so for many people in our community.   There were few things he could not “fix”, as many of you know.  

He is survived by his wife, Sue Talley and his three children:  Dawn Stewart of Comanche, Jacqueline Talley of Mineral Wells, and Jim Talley of Mineral Wells.  He also leaves behind two son-in-laws, Jeff Stewart and Chad Melton, and daughter-in-law, Courtney Talley.  Jimmy is survived by his sister, Yvonne Hughes.  He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Shanna Elkey and her husband, Tom Elkey, as well as his bonus daughter, Christy Willis.  He has multiple grandchildren: Ali Crowe, Jastin Moore, Taylor Atkinson, Chace Talley, Talley Goldston, MacKenzie Talley, Caitlynn Talley, Stone Terrell, Meegan Talley, Jacqueline Talley, Brooke Thurstonson, Cassi Tanner, and Doc Sharp along with multiple great grandchildren.

Jimmy was born January 22, 1946 to Frances Matos and Charlie Talley in Dillard, Oklahoma.  He spent much time at his grandparents, Troy and Bertha Shewmake, while growing up in Mineral Wells.  He graduated high school in Perrin and enlisted in the Army Reserve stationed at Fort Wolters.  He married Jacqueline Bradshaw Talley in 1967 and they raised their three children together until her death in 1993.  He united his life with Sue Havens Sharp in 2000.  They spent the last chapter of his life together and shared their families without discretion.   Jimmy enjoyed spending time outdoors, occupying much of his spare time hunting and fishing and sometimes just sitting on the porch with his family watching the wildlife on his property and sharing his words of wisdom.  

Some of his last days were spent giving those same words of wisdom to help guide his family, and even the staff at the hospital.  He instilled his values of strength and courage to his entire family and all the people who loved him dearly.  

 He is preceded in death by his wife Jackie Bradshaw Talley, his mother Frances Matos, his brother Charles Talley, sister Elaine Long, and stepson Davy Sharp.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all that knew him.  

Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Staggs Prairie Cemetery.