James "Jim" Bennett Randels

James B. Randels (Jim) was born October 23,1918 in Anthony, Kansas and died on September 5, 2025 in Athens, Georgia of natural causes at the age of 106 years.

Jim graduated high school in Ardmore, Oklahoma in 1936. He was the youngest recipient of Eagle Scout status in the state of Oklahoma at that time. Jim attended Oklahoma A&M University. He later worked for Standard Oil and Noble Oil as a rough neck prior to WW2. Jim enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1941 and trained as a fighter pilot. He taught advanced fighter school for the duration of WW2. Jim flew the P51 Mustang on fighter missions during the Korean conflict and the F4C Phantom in the Vietnam war. He flew over 30 aircraft during his Army Air Corps / Air Force career, from the Stearman biplane to the McDonnell Douglas F4-C Phantom. Jim retired from the Air Force in 1971 as full Colonel. He was awarded multiple medals from distinguished flying crosses to the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.

Jim’s post military career was in Fort Walton Beach, Florida as a realtor. Jim volunteered at Eglin Air Force Hospital for over 20 years. He was an avid golfer and swimmer. Jim’s first marriage was to Evelyn Stover in 1940. His second marriage was to Elizabeth Reid in 1969.

Jim is survived by his oldest son, James B Randels and wife, Judy. Daughter, Jan Morehouse and husband, Dan. Daughter, Anne Martin. Son, Joseph S. Randels and wife, Maryjane. Step daughter, Gaye Cawdry and husband, Paddy. Step daughter, Candis Rainer and husband, Sterling. Jim is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jim was a man of deep faith and loved his family dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 3:00 pm at Lord and Stephens, Danielsville.

Lord and Stephens, Danielsville is in charge of arrangements.