12/27/2025
Dustin Lee James was born on November 3, 2006, in Moore, Oklahoma, to Joshua Terry James and Teresa Ann (Golden) Thomas. He passed from this life too soon in an auto accident on December 24, 2025, at the age of 19.
Dustin moved to the little town of Alex, Oklahoma, in the seventh grade. There he met his second dad and mom, Jacob and Cerissa Otey. He also became a member of The Gathering Church, where he formed many special friendships. Dustin proudly gave his life to Christ and was baptized by his dad, Jacob, on June 5, 2024.
Dustin was known for his fearless spirit and his love of adventure. He had a deep passion for bull riding, fishing, burnouts, and sports – especially football. Whether he was cheering on his favorite team or out working hard, Dustin brought energy and determination into everything he did. He wasn’t afraid to be overt, bold, and unapologetically himself. Dustin leaves behind a life that was lived loud, proud, and to the fullest.
Dustin was a hard-working young man that took pride in his job at Clune Construction in Maysville, Oklahoma. He loved working and believed in earning what he had through dedication and grit. Those who worked alongside him knew him as someone who showed up ready to give his best.
Dustin’s greatest love was for his family, especially his sisters, who held a special place in his heart. His loyalty, love, and larger-than-life personality will be remembered by all who knew him. Dustin leaves behind memories full of laughter, strength, and a reminder to live life without holding back.
Dustin is survived by his parents, Joshua Terry James of Del City, Oklahoma, Teresa Ann (Golden) Thomas of Moore, Oklahoma, Jacob and Cerissa Otey of Alex, Oklahoma, his siblings, Autumn Golden of Moore, Oklahoma, Shaundrea Thomas of Midwest City, Oklahoma, Shandacia Thomas of Midwest City, Oklahoma, Donna Otey of Alex, Oklahoma, Sutton Otey of Alex, Oklahoma, Shaden Thomas of Moore, Oklahoma, Jacob Otey of Alex, Oklahoma, his niece, Kayliahna Hutchins of Moore, Oklahoma, his grandparents, Randy Golden of Tuttle, Oklahoma, Jay and Amber Otey of Alex, Oklahoma, Jesse James of Lexington, Oklahoma, Kevin and Brandy Vanable of Alex, Oklahoma, and his great-grandmother, Arvada “Beth” Golden of Moore, Oklahoma, along with many other family and friends.
Dustin was preceded in death by his grandmother, Susan Kay James, his great-grandmothers, Helene Esker, Laurie Golden, Lola Tow, and his great-grandfather, Junior Golden.
A visitation for Dustin will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 1:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M., at Wilbourn Family Funeral Home Chapel in Alex, Oklahoma.
A funeral service to honor Dustin’s life is set to be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at 2:00 P.M., at the Alex School Gymnasium in Alex, Oklahoma. He will be laid to rest at the Alex Cemetery in Alex, Oklahoma, following the service.
Services are under the direction of Scott and Angel Wilbourn of Wilbourn Family Funeral Home. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.wilbournfamilyfuneralhome.com