Jonell James

JONELL JAMES
1969-2024

It is with profound sadness that the family of Jonell James, affectionally known as Shantelli Face and Bones, announce her peaceful passing surrounded by family on August 25th, 2024, at the age of 55. Jonell was born June 12, 1969, to the late Jonas and Louise (Tonihka) James. Jonell lived a life rich with compassion, exemplified by her profound dedication to service and deep faith.

Those who knew Jonell knew her love was boundless, particularly for her daughter Cara and her family. She found pleasure in life’s simple joys such as enjoying a strong cup of coffee each morning, doting on her cats, listening to music and talking with her family and friends. Jonell’s laughter was contagious; she loved to laugh and did so easily.

From her childhood, Jonell had a knack for rescuing any stray dog within a 5-mile radius, a trait that would define much of her character. Dad would get upset that our yard looked like a dog kennel, but this didn’t stop Jonell from adopting more (this is saying something if any of you knew our dad!). She loved them all and they loved her. It was quite a sight to see. This inherent need to help, to give, was but a glimpse of what was to come later in her life.

Jonell’s love for animals was matched by her passion for music. It is a well-known fact that Jonell was a lifelong fan of Prince (formerly known)-I personally recall being recruited as backup singer during many impromptu performances in our living room, assigned to play the air piano while Jonell got all the cool parts. I will cherish these memories always- Jonell’s passion for music and her dream of joining his band by teaching herself to play the drums were emblematic of her zest for life and boundless spirit.

After serving in the Navy following high school, Jonell faced significant personal challenges that tested and shaped her spirit and empathy. These experiences forged her into a beacon of support for those in need, particularly underserved children and families.

Jonell’s professional journey in social work began with a bachelor’s degree quickly followed by a Master of Social Work from the University of Oklahoma. Jonell’s tireless commitment to those in need shone through her private practice, her years of volunteering at the Tulsa Dream Center and her impactful service these last eight years working for the Indian Health Service. Earlier this year, Jonell decided to return to school in pursuit of her PhD along with a mission to further her ability to support community programs through securing grants and funding. She also dreamed of opening an animal shelter, envisioning it as a sanctuary for animals. She laughed saying she would run out of room the first day because she would fill it with all the cats she had rescued.

Above all, Jonell was a devoted mother to her daughter, Cara, deeply cherished by her family and her community for her nurturing care and faith. Her ability to provide comfort and support, enriched by her own life’s trials, left an indelible mark on every life she touched.

Jonell, our beautiful sister, Cara’s mother and a friend to many will be sorely missed every day, but her spirit and the memories she created will forever remain in our hearts. She will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her faith, and the hope and care she infused into the world.

Jonell is preceded in death by her parents, Jonas and Louise James, aunts, Shirley and Kathy, her brothers Jeremiah, Daryl, Jonathan, nephews, Jeremiah, Tamiko, and niece, Tanisha.

Jonell leaves behind her daughter, Cara and son-in-law Dylan Nicholson, her siblings, Joni, Iris, Johanson, Joyce, Donna, Lillie, Johanson Lee, Javier, Ireta, Jacquelyn, sister-in-law, Angela James, many loving nieces and nephews, cousins, and a community of friends and patients whose lives she touched deeply.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Tulsa Dream Center or any local animal rescue organization.

A memorial service will will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.

Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com