James McNew
September 21, 1938 — August 15, 2025
James “Jim” McNew, age 86, passed away on August 15, 2025. Jim was born on September 21, 1938, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, to D.G. McNew and Alice (Kirchenbauer) McNew. Growing up in Osage County just outside of Ponca City, he graduated from Ponca City High School in 1956.
In 1957, Jim encountered the love of his life, Iva Louise (Tucker) McNew, and they were united in marriage on June 7, 1959. He pursued higher education at Oklahoma State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics in 1963.
Jim's professional journey began with a two-year tenure at General Dynamics in Fort Worth, Texas. In 1965, he returned to Ponca City, accepting a position with Conoco. Over the subsequent 27 years, Jim flourished as a computer analyst, ultimately retiring in 1993 as a Senior Supervising Systems Analyst. Post-retirement, he partnered with his good friend, Henry Cook, to establish Crusher Oil Company, a venture that brought him excitement and fulfillment as he enjoyed the companionship of working alongside Henry.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Jim greatly cherished the thrill of hunting and fishing. His passion for nature led him to explore the captivating woods and waters of Osage County and embark on elk hunting trips in Colorado with loved ones. Jim’s affection for his surroundings was rivaled only by his commitment to help those in his life. He was well-known for his readiness to assist others, whether by repairing something in need of fixing, undertaking major projects for family members, or simply providing a listening ear when it was most needed. Even as his body slowed in his later years, his spirit and dedication to outdoor activity remained unwavering, making him a constant and reassuring presence in the lives of those who loved him.
Jim's legacy is characterized by kindness, quiet strength, and a profound connection to the land and the people he cherished. He was preceded in death by his parents, D.G. and Alice McNew; his brother, Donald; his sister, Nancy; and his daughter, Debbie.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Iva McNew; his sisters, Lorraine and Maryann; his brother, Delbert; his daughter, Brenda McNew, and her grandson, Leonard; his son, Timothy McNew, and wife, Mechelle. Jim is also survived by five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren: Kari Koch and partner Mario; Sharii Warner and husband Mark, along with their daughter, Charlie; Amber McNew; Katy Thomason and her husband, Keith, and their children, Kaley, Zoey, and Ryan; Justin McNew and fiancée Rebecca Weber, along with their children, Cole, Harper, and Olivia.
A come and go celebration of life will be held in honor of Jim, and all family and friends are warmly invited to join. Those who wish to stop by, share memories, and celebrate his remarkable life can do so at 1105 Roseddale Drive, Ponca City, OK, on September 14, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
