Dr. James R. Tidmore, II passed away on October 5, 2023.
James was born January 11, 1949, in Shawnee, OK to James R. and Mary Ellen Tidmore. James was a graduate of Meeker High School – Class of 1967. After graduating from high school, James attended Central State University (now UCO) in Edmond, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1971 and a Master of Education in 1978. In 1997, James earned a Doctorate in Education from the University of Oklahoma.
Midwest City - Del City Public Schools employed James from 1971 to 1988 as a Teacher, Coach, and Athletic Director. James was employed by the Oklahoma Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) from 1988 until his retirement in 2006. He held various positions at CLEET including Coordinator, Investigator, Supervisor, Curriculum Specialist, Manager of Training, and Standards Division Manager. After retiring from CLEET, he was employed by the Driver License Division of the Department of Public Safety as the Lead Desk Top Support from 2006 to 2021.
James married Kathryn Lynn Burrahm, on December 11, 1970 at Morning Star Baptist Church, Meeker, OK.
James is survived by his devoted wife of almost 53 years, Kathryn Tidmore; his son, Kyle James Tidmore, daughter-in-law, Raelynn Tidmore, grandson, Karsten James Tidmore, and granddaughter, Sophia Rae Tidmore; his sisters: Donna Paddyaker, Carol Jean Nelson, sister- in- law, Jane Lauderdale, several nephews, nieces, and many friends. Last, but not least, James is survived by his two poodles, Abby and Penny, whom he loved dearly.
A memorial ceremony to celebrate the life of James will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Meeker First Baptist Church in Meeker, OK. James will be laid to rest during a private family burial at New Hope Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral & Cremation Service in Shawnee, OK.
