Jim "Jimbo" Freiley

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jim Freiley (83) of Shawnee, Oklahoma on October 6th, 2025.

Jim was born in Decatur, Texas on May 21st, 1942, to James and Anna Lee (Stewart) Freiley. He was one of thirteen children.

Jim’s family moved from Texas to California where he spent a good portion attending Exeter High School. He was a standout football player and an exceptional wrestler. He transferred to Roosevelt Union High School, Fresno CA, for his senior year where he graduated in 1961. After high school he took great pride in pursuing and becoming a Journeyman Electrician. He joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Jim belonged to Local 100 in Fresno CA, Local 494 in Milwaukee WI and finished his career with Local 1141 in Oklahoma City OK. Jim retired in 2004.

Jim spent 15 years of his life in Oconomowoc, WI. He was in a long-term relationship with Cheri Morris and during that time they welcomed their son, Tim Freiley. Cheri also had an 8-year-old son, Landon, that Jim would help raise as his own.

Jim moved to Oklahoma in 1989 where he would marry his soul mate, Earlie May, in 1990. Earlie May had four daughters. Sheila, Rhonda, Ardella and Paulette, that he would become very close to. Jim and Earlie were married for an amazing 28 years; they enjoyed many things together including their little hobby farm.

Jim is preceded in passing by his parents, 11 siblings, his beloved wife Earlie May Freiley, stepdaughter Sheila Ledford, and grandson Sean Freiley.

Jim is survived by sisters Francis Wiley and Betty Brazil, son Tim Freiley (Jennifer), stepdaughters Rhonda Smith (Ted), Ardella Armstrong (Royce), Paulette Karcher (James), Son-in-law Joe Ledford (Sheila), 8 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was one of a kind in many ways. All that knew and loved him will miss him tremendously.

On Friday November 21st, 2025, there will be a visitation at AE Funeral Services Chapel, from 11:00am-12:30pm with a memorial service to follow at 1:00pm.

603 W Independence St. Shawnee, Oklahoma 74804.