J. C. Larimore

James Claude “JC” Larimore passed from this life on August 31, 2026, at his home near Woodward, Oklahoma, surrounded by the life and memories he had built with those he loved.

JC was born on December 6, 1945, in Arnett, Oklahoma, to James Orville and Eunice Olga (Bland) Larimore. He grew up in Arnett and attended school there until, at the age of 17, he was driven to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

JC earned his GED while enlisted. After training, he was stationed in Okinawa and served on several tours in Vietnam. In Vietnam, he entered the frontlines as a radioman on a forward observation team. He advanced quickly through the ranks, attaining the rank of Sergeant before receiving his honorable discharge in 1966. His military service was an important part of his life, and he carried with him the pride and determination of a Marine throughout the years that followed.

After returning to the United States, JC enrolled in a trade school in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, where he learned the skills of refrigeration and HVAC work. He put that knowledge to use working in HVAC and refrigeration before beginning work as a mechanic at a gasoline plant. He remained there until his retirement.

On September 12, 1981, JC married the love of his life, Claudine Ann St. John, in Pampa, Texas, at Lamar Full Gospel Church. Claudine had one special request for their wedding—that she be married in a church—and JC was happy to make that wish come true. From that day forward, JC was a devoted husband and steadfast companion to Claudine.

JC became a stepfather to Claudine’s two children, Shaile and Brandon, and together JC and Claudine were blessed with a daughter, Darcie. They spent the next twenty years making their home in Arnett before moving to Woodward, where JC would spend the remainder of his life. Through the years, JC’s family remained at the center of his world.

JC was a man who enjoyed working with his hands and rarely seemed to run out of something to build, repair, create, or explore. He was an avid gardener and took great pleasure in watching things grow. He was also an animal lover, with a particular fondness for cats. He had a creative side that showed itself in many unique ways. JC made and played traditional Native American flutes, worked with metal and welding, and created sculptures from his craft.

JC will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and stepfather, proud Marine, talented craftsman, and a man whose curiosity and creativity could be found in so many of the things he loved to do. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

JC was preceded in death by his parents, James and Eunice Larimore; and his sister, Carolyn Montgomery.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Claudine, of the home; his daughter, Darcie Larimore-Arenas and her family; stepdaughter, Shaile Mulder and her family; stepson, Brandon McCawley; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and a host of loved ones and friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to JC’s healthcare team at Integris and to VitalCaring Hospice for the care and compassion they provided.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to WOOF Pet Rescue, c/o Shaw Funeral Home, P.O. Box 276, Vici, OK 73859.