J.A. Rufner Jr. was born June 15, 1931, to J.A. and Jimmie Rufner in Depew, Oklahoma. He departed this life on the morning of April 23, 2023, surrounded by his family.

He was a 1949 graduate of Bristow High School. He then went into the United States Army and served as a Sergeant first class during the Korean War.

On February 8, 1953, J.A. Rufner and Joyce Mudgett were united in marriage. From this union were born three daughters, LaNellda, Janada, and Darla.

He was a member of the Bristow Advent Christian Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors on his tractor, and creative welding. He also enjoyed searching for deals on Craigs list.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Joyce Rufner; three daughters, LaNellda Downs and husband Gary, Janada Hagan and husband Gary and Darla Rufner and husband Steve Crabtree; three grandchildren, Shannon Woods, Megan Wiley, and Christopher Downs; seven great grandchildren, Brooklyn Woods, Sutton Woods, Xander Wiley, Ella Wiley, Ryker Downs, Logan Downs, and Nolan Downs. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00AM, Friday, April 28, 2023, at Grace Christian Church with interment to follow at the Bristow City Cemetery.