Service Friday for Jim Haley

James C. “Jim” Haley, age 81, of Ada, Oklahoma, passed away on May 17, 2025. Born on May 29, 1943 in Ada, Jim lived a life marked by service, devotion, and deep love for his family and country.

Jim graduated from Allen High School and proudly served in the United States Navy. He went on to dedicate 29 years of his life to the Ada Fire Department as a professional firefighter — a role he considered not just a job, but a calling. Fighting fires was one of his true passions, and he served with courage, loyalty, and a strong sense of duty.

On August 7, 1965, Jim married the love of his life, Peggy Clark. Together, they built a strong, close-knit family that includes their children, Jack Wayne Haley (wife Stacey), and Anna “Sam” Haley-Dooley (husband Frank); grandchildren, Chaise Haley (wife Cassie), Taylor Davis (husband Harlan), Elizabeth Canaday (fiancé Colby Civick), and Kali Dooley; and great-grandchildren, Ava Haley, Kaiden Haley, Mabrey Davis, and Ripley Davis. He was the proud patriarch of the Haley family and made it his mission to ensure his loved ones were always protected and taken care of.

Jim is survived by his wife, Peggy Clark-Haley; siblings Joe Williams (wife Doris), Kirby Williams (wife Mary Sue), and Kay Lynne Haley. He was preceded in death by his parents, T.H. “T-Bone” Haley and Zelma Haley; and siblings Jack Haley and Carter Williams.

Known for his ornery spirit and sense of humor, Jim loved making people laugh and never hesitated to say what was on his mind — often voicing what everyone else was thinking. He was deeply patriotic, often seen in his signature overalls featuring an American flag or eagle. His flags — Old Glory and “Don’t Tread on Me” — wave proudly outside his home, a symbol of the values he held dear.

Jim was also a lifelong rancher and gardener, famous for his prized onions and love of the land. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time outdoors with his family — camping, fishing, relaxing at the lake or river, and soaking in the joy of simply being together.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 22nd, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Criswell Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 23rd, at 10:00 a.m. at Union Valley Baptist Church, officiated by Randall Christy. Jim will be laid to rest at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Francis, Oklahoma.

Jim Haley lived with purpose, pride, and a heart full of love. His legacy of strength, humor, and fierce devotion to his family will live on in all who knew and loved him.