James Oscar Gravitt

Hemet, Ca – James Oscar Gravitt, “Jim”, age 72, of Woodburn, Oregon (formerly of Hemet, CA) passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 20, 2020 while in southern California.

James Oscar Gravitt

Jim was born September 3, 1947 in Modesto, California to Oscar and Jessie Gravitt.  Jim spent the early years of his childhood living in Stilwell, Oklahoma.  Moving to California in 1955, Jim attended elementary school in Thermal and Indio before moving to Perris in 1962.  Jim graduated from Perris High School in 1966.  After graduation, he went to work for a company that was later known as General Telephone. 

James Oscar Gravitt and Debi

Jim was drafted into the United States Army in 1968.  He served two years in the Army with several months stationed at the DMZ in Korea.  Jim was discharged from the Army in 1970 and returned to work at General Telephone in Hemet, CA.

Jim remained with General Telephone in Hemet his entire career, 35 years, retiring in 2002. 

After his retirement, Jim and his wife, Debi, moved to the Oregon Coast for a year where Jim spent many hours fishing the Siletz River in his boat.  Their next move was to Gresham in 2003 where Jim began spending more of his time buying and selling hotrods.  While this remained a passion Jim loved, it became close to a full-time past time taking him on the road many hours and miles.  Jim was very active in attending car shows, joining car clubs and making many life-long friends along the way.

James Oscar Gravitt with HotRod

Debi would occasionally persuade Jim to go on a “non-hotrod” related vacation.  They enjoyed traveling the United States, including Alaska, and Canada in their truck and camper.  Their dachshunds over the years, be it Sampson or more recently Peggy, travelled and shared in their adventures.

James Oscar Gravitt Car Show

When not on the road, Jim had many other interests he enjoyed.  He and Debi attended East Hill Foursquare Church and other churches in the area.  His entertainment included family gatherings with games and croquet, reading, going to casinos and playing poker with his family and friends.  Jim had many laughs and hours of enjoyment in their wild poker games. 

Jim’s love for life, his upbeat and positive nature, quick-wittedness and ability to embellish a boring story to capture your attention will never be forgotten. 

Jim is survived by his wife Debra Gravitt; former wife Jerrie Bond; 2 daughters April (Cory) and Aimee; son Chad (Chip); granddaughters Realyn and Rachel; grandsons Chaiden, Jamison, Tristan and Jason; great-granddaughters Emma and Morgan; (brothers) Don, Billy and Ernie; (sisters) Nancy, Mary, Doris, Frances and Betty; many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces/nephews as well as hundreds of friends.

James Oscar Gravitt with April

Funeral Service at Miller Jones Mortuary, 26770 Murrieta Rd., Sun City, CA 92586 with Pastor Dan Ellis officiating.  March 11th, 2020 @ 11:00 AM.  Viewing prior to service 10:00-10:45.  Private family service immediately following at Riverside National Cemetery.  Reception information will be provided at service.

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