Jackie Faye James

Jackie Faye James, age 80, of Oden, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Sunday, November 19, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on July 7, 1943, in Sedalia, Missouri, the daughter of John and Daisy Covington.  She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Billy Covington and Gary Covington.  

Jackie loved to read, spending time with family and staying in adventures in her mind.  She always enjoyed having a dog and taking care of him like one of the family.  She was a wonderful cook and homemaker. Jackie's life was filled with many careers, such as being a farmer, a licensed practical nurse, a convenient store-owner, to retiring as an unexplosive ordinance technician.  After retirement, she fulfilled her dream of living off the grid on a mountain in Alaska for the past twelve years, before returning home to Montgomery County.

Jackie is survived by her loving husband of thirty-four years, Ray James; two sons, David Minton and Danny Minton; five grandchildren, Adrian Minton, Casey Minton, Daniel Minton, Kelsey Minton and Jacklyn Minton; three great-grandchildren; four sisters, Ruth Moore, Johnny Mae Lyons, Rhonda Thornton and Nita Morris; her sister-in-law, Rhonda Minton; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members; and a host of wonderful friends.  

Services will be held at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, November 22, 2023, in the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel, Glenwood with Bro. Tommy Beshears officiating.

Special thank you to her sister-in-law, Rhonda Minton and her nephew, Rob Moore for all the caring help they gave to Jackie during her final illness.  Also a special note to her great-grandson, Haizyn Minton, who dearly loved his Mamaw and always said "She was a Good Cooker!"

"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us everyday . . .  unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear."

                                                 "Always in our hearts and minds"