Jimmy Merrill McAlister, age 69, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was born on August 5, 1956, in Anadarko, Oklahoma, to Loyd Merrill McAlister and Ellen Frances McAlister, both of Moore, Oklahoma.

Jimmy lived a life shaped by perseverance, faith, and the many changes of the world around him. Growing up in Oklahoma, he witnessed and experienced decades of history, from the rapid growth of his home state to the challenges and triumphs that shaped his generation. He endured personal loss at a young age with the passing of his mother in 1980, and later his father in 2005, losses that strengthened his quiet resilience. Through life’s hardships and blessings alike, Jim remained steady in his character and grounded in his faith.

In 2023, Jimmy was diagnosed with cancer, a battle he faced with quiet strength, dignity, and unwavering faith. He endured the challenges of his illness with courage and grace, never allowing it to define his spirit. Throughout his journey, he remained steadfast in his trust in the Lord, serving as an example of perseverance and resilience to those who loved him.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ellen Frances McAlister and Loyd Merrill McAlister; his younger brother, Gary Wayne McAlister; and his nephew, Sam.

He is survived by his brother, Bobby Wayne McAlister, and his wife, Denise of Lipan, Texas; his niece, Laura K. Buckler; and his great-nephews and nieces, Jordan(Mica), Trevor, Arya, Mika, Solara, and Orion. Great great nephew Elijah with another great great niece or nephew expected in June. He is also survived by several cousins, including Jonny Dean of Atlanta, Georgia; Gary Dean of Burleson, Texas; Gail Atwood and Janie Atwood of Fort Worth, Texas; Lisa Atwood of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Carol Sealy of Fort Worth, Texas.

Jimmy is lovingly remembered by the family he built and chose as his own. He is survived by his beloved girlfriend, Donna Chartier; her daughter, Angeline Presson; her husband, Dan Presson, and their daughter, Adley. He is also survived by his dear friend Mickey, who shared many treasured days with him fishing and spending time on the lake.

Jimmy found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, canoeing, and being out on the water. He enjoyed barbecuing, watching OU football, thrifting with Donna in search of hidden treasures, and sharing a silly joke to bring a smile to those around him. He was a quiet and reserved man with a gentle spirit and was deeply proud of giving his life to the Lord. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, his quiet humor, and the strength of his faith through every season of his life. On his brother’s birthday, he was gently called into the presence of the Lord, a sacred reminder of the eternal bonds of family, the unfailing mercy of God, and the quiet ways His grace lifts and sustains us through every season of life.

He will be remembered for his courage, his kindness, his faith, and the love he shared with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

In Jim's own words shared on his Facebook:

"There is only one thing worse than not believing and knowing the Lord. That's wishing you had...."

There is no doubt Jim is in Heaven because he believed in Jesus. He was proud of giving his life to the Lord. If you don't know Jesus, get to know him, take Jimmy's advice, and don't wish you had taken the time......get to know Him now.

We know Jim is home now, restored anew, healthy, no more pain or fear. His body, mind, heart, and relationships mended. All questions answered. All doubts abolished. All fears conquered. All the broken parts mended. No wants, no needs, no desires, all empty places filled. All regrets forgiven. We know this because our God promised this to us, to you, to me, to Jim, to your neighbor, to your family, to your friends, to the people you pass at the grocery store, at the park, in the building you live or work in, everyone was given the same promise that if you believe, know and love our Lord Jesus Christ His Son you too shall have eternal life.

Remember what Jim said, "There is only one thing worse than not believing and knowing the Lord. That's wishing you had...."