James Michael Warner, age 61, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away unexpectedly on January 28, 2026. A man of immense creativity, sharp wit, and a legendary work ethic, James left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

A Life of Purpose and Passion

Born in Oklahoma City on December 30, 1964, to Michael Warner and Ilene Zwally, James had a natural gift for making people laugh and a soul deeply rooted in music. After serving in the US Navy, he earned his Masters from Southern Nazarene University and embarked on a career defined by versatility and ambition.

Throughout his life, James excelled in various financial and retail management roles. He also embraced his entrepreneurial spirit through web development and game app creation via his company Pro-Web, as well as styling men's tailored clothing. He was a leader who didn't just manage; he mentored. His devotion to his employees and his total commitment to every project he touched earned him the respect of colleagues.

A Heart for Others

Beyond the office, James was a gifted musician, a devoted husband, a proud father, a man of faith and a proud cancer survivor. Whether he was on stage performing or at home with his family, he was a pillar of support for those he cared about. James lived life with curiosity—finding joy in everything from a vast library of music that spanned gospel, country, classical, and his beloved rock and roll to mastering new skills and technologies.

He was famously great with kids and had a unique ability to light up a room with his humor. To James, no job was too small and no dream was too big.

Family and Legacy

James' greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Mary Warner; his children, Andy Warner and Lauren Warner-Harding along with her husband Charles Harding; and his faithful companion, his dog Ash.

He is also survived by his mother, Ilene Zwally; his brothers, Patrick Warner and wife, Linda; Jerry Kindred and wife, Jen; his sisters, Sherri Jensen and Terri Hacker and husband, Dale; and an abundance of nieces, nephews, grand-nephews, dear friends, and fans. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Warner; stepfather, William Zwally and his stepmother, Barbara Warner.

Services

A celebration of James' life will be held on February 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Mercer-Adams Chapel, 3925 N. Asbury Avenue, Bethany, OK.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in James' memory to the American Cancer Society.